I

NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 1

All information herein is correct at time of publication. thE TeAM | The views and opinions expressed or implied in The brandlaureate business world review aDVisOR are those of the authors and contributors and do not necessarily dr KKJohan reflect those of The BrandLaureate, its editorial & staff. All editorial content and materials are copyright of PuBlishER/EDitOR-iN-ChiEf thE BRaNDlauREatE BusiNEss WORlD REViEW Chew bee Peng no Permit Kdn PQ/PP16972/08/2011)(028331)

MaNagiNg EDitOR The brandlaureate business world review is published by Ida Ibrahim thE BRaNDlauREatE sDN BhD (690453K), 39B & 41B, SS21/60, Damansara Utama, 47400 Petaling Jaya. Tel: (603) 7710 0348 Fax: (603) 7710 0350 sENiOR WRitER Ian Gregory edward Masselamani Printed in Malaysia by PERCEtakaN skyliNE sDN BhD (PQ 1780/2317) WRitERs 35 & 37, Jalan 12/32B, TSI Business Industrial Park, Batu 6 1/2, nurilya Anis rahim Off Jalan Kepong, 52000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Ain M.C. Gerald Chuah

CONtRiButORs Anu venugopal, Tony Thompson, Justin Chew, sean Tan

CREatiVE MaNagER Ibtisam basri

assistaNt CREatiVE MaNagER Mohd shahril Hassan

sENiOR gRaPhiC DEsigNER Mohd Zaidi Yusof

MultiMEDia DEsigNER Zulhelmi Yarabi

EDitORial assistaNts Kalwant Kaur lau swee Ching

For suggestions and comments or further enquiries on thE BRaNDlauREatE BusiNEss WORlD REViEW, please contact [email protected].

“Position Your Brand on a World Class Platform” thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 3 PUBLISHER’S note |

The brandlaureate was in Ho Chi Minh enterprising, setting up businesses of their City on october 31st to launch The own; plus women form a large population of T brandlaureate special edition world the workforce. Awards 2017 Vietnam. To this end, a spirited press conference was held at The Having a productive and enterprising workforce reverie saigon on Halloween. The reverie is a is important to any country or business, as it is 6-Star luxury hotel ranked as one of the top the people that drives the soul of the nation. luxury hotels in Asia. The Awards ceremony will Hence, the Management & Science University be held at the end of this year, on december (MSU) in Shah Alam was established with a 7, and the winners will comprise the best of desire to help shape young Malaysians through vietnamese brands as well as multinational values, ideas and knowledge. brands present in the country. Founder and President, Professor Tan sri dato one might wonder why vietnam? Truth be told, Wira Dr. Mohd. Shukri Yajid, who is featured vietnam is a country that inspires. After having in this issue’s Cover Story, has been at the endured the war against America from 1955 helm of the position for the last 36 years, to 1975, and reigned victorious, it has pulled carving an institution which provides quality itself out of the adversities and moved on to education for anyone with a desire to improve build a robust and vibrant economy. with a themselves. GDP that averages 6.7 per cent, the country is undoubtedly the envy of many other nations! without a doubt, a nation can only move forward if its people have the right skills and I am impressed by the drive and energy that knowledge and MSU’s role in the education is present in vietnam. The people go around ChEW BEE PENg sector of Malaysia takes on an important role. PUBLISHER / EDITOR-In-CHIeF their daily tasks with great sense of purpose digitalization and Industry 4.0 will become a and confidence. At the same time, they are norm in how businesses are conducted and to very competitive. And all these attributes benefit from it, we require not only new skills [email protected] – drive, energy, purpose, confidence butand an upgrading of existing skills to make it faCEBOOk.COM/BRANDLAUREATE competitiveness – are what make a greata success. no country ought to be left behind brand and vietnam has a strong Country in this new technology tide and all of us must Brand presence. There are a good number be prepared to embrace it and for all intents of top vietnamese brands which have, to a and purposes, ‘rebrand’ ourselves if we want to great degree, contributed to the development stay relevant. of its economy – building strong industries and providing business and employment I hope you enjoy reading this year-end issue of opportunities. the magazine. As we reflect on the happy and sad incidents which have taken place in 2017, Furthermore, young vietnamese are now we also should look at the hopeful promises in contributing to the development of the nation. store for 2018. Those educated overseas have come back to help develop the nation and you meet Enjoy the year-end celebrations and may you many of them working in multinationalsalso be in the pink of health to welcome 2018! and local conglomerates. Many are also very Thank you.

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 5 EDITOR’S note |

n January 1, people around the globe Perhaps one of the best new Year’s motivators is Ocommit with vigor to all sorts of virtuous the quote by Chinese philosopher, lao tzu who goals, from losing weight to being a more wisely said in The Way of Lao tzu, “A journey of a understanding boss or partner to eating more thousand miles begins with a single step.” healthfully to saving more money. And, before too long, most of us find we’re back where we started. As for me, this year isn’t so different from last Of those who make new resolutions, vast year... it’s just as hard to get out of bed early, majorities are successful for that first week, but— exercise often, and not get distracted from work unsurprising—by the end the month the numbers by social media as it was in 2016. But I, for one, start to fall. by the end of six months the amount buy into the mantra of ‘new year, new you!’ on an of successes are basically non-existent. annual basis, mentally and monetarily. I’m always up for a fresh start and setting new goals for the After all, studies have shown that from those year ahead. Even though 2018 will bring the who made a New Year’s resolution, only 8 persame challenges as this year, a “fresh start” is a cent of them are consistently successful with it. good way to kick a new habit into high gear. Let’s Researchers reckon that fewer than a quarter of hope I make it past January. And, if not — well, I us will keep our resolutions, which makes me suppose there’s always 2019! wonder why we bother? All in all, whatever resolution you make for the I believe it has something to do with the optimism coming year, decide now how important it is to of a fresh start. It is the chance to change, to you, knowing deep down in your bones that fear, iDa iBRahiM improve and to become the best possible version outdated habits or obstacles are not going to be MAnAGInG edITor of ourselves. enough to keep you from meeting your goals. Remember to take it one step at a time and you’ll [email protected] but why do so many of us fail with our January reach that goal. faCEBOOk.COM/BRANDLAUREATE resolutions? I believe that we put too much pressure on ourselves; we set goals only because I wish you nothing but the best of luck and good we think we “should” or “ought to”; we aren’t fortune in this upcoming year. specific enough about our objectives; we don’t plan to succeed; or we just feel too lazy, stressed, Merry Christmas and Happy new Year! busy, tired, hungry, ill, upset, bored, or demotivated to make it happen today and then, by tomorrow, it’s too late – our desire has beaten our will, yet again.

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 LET’S UNITE AND RUN FOR A NOBLE CAUSE issue #44 WHAT’S InSIDe | November – December

This issue celebrates, clockwise from top, Prof. Tan Sri Dato’ Wira Dr. Mohd Shukri bin Ab. Yajid of Management & Science University, 2017 Year In Review, 2018 countdown, World Fashion Week, Mah Sing and many more.... NOVEMBER 18, 2017 6.30AM - 12.00PM SEPANG INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT (SIC)

Keep updated on#MUR2017 at institutonnjaafar.com, /iojthetouch, @iojthetouch, @institutonnjaafar, and /institutonnjaafar issue #44 TABLE OF contentS | November - December 2017 the Brandlaureate // bridging borders, branding beyond

82 118 The brief: 76 Institut Onn Jaafar With the record of Most Youth-Participated 118 Brand Passport: South Island, New 22 Country & world run in the country, Institut onn Jaafar Zealand Get yourself informed with the hottest and has been leading the wheel in making A country that can never be fully latest news on business and branding a difference in the lives of poor and captured in words, new Zealand is a vulnerable children. Ceo Charles Mohan paradise on earth. exploring the south shares with us the story behind the Island of the land of the long white organization’s establishment. cloud, our insider shares her experience THE Diary: on her trip of a lifetime. 80 Chow Tai Fook: The Perfect Love & Bridal 20 The BrandLaureate International Brand Collections 124 Thor: Ragnarok Personality Founded in 1929, Chow Tai Fook is a TaikaWaititi’s Thor: Ragnarok is a Get yourself acquainted with the list of timeless brand that is synonymous with breath of fresh air in the Marvel Comics 114 international brand personalities that were trustworthiness and authenticity, not to Universe, but still feels very much like a recently honoured with The brandlaureate mention renowned for product design, Marvel movie – for better or worse. read International brand Personality Awards. quality and value. The legacy of the Group our review! and its iconic brand is rooted in innovation, craftsmanship and heritage. The Group, 30 The BrandLaureate ICON BestBrands Awards which brought iconic jewellery brands such 2016-2017 Hearts on Fire, Monologue and soInlove A flashback to the recently held The is proud to present its contemporary brandlaureate IConbestbrands Awards mesmerizing bridal Collection. 2016-2017 82 San Lorenzo 38 Say Yes2Brand san lorenzo Preschool (formerly san I Just as the nocturnal realm unveils new lorenzo Montessori) is a pacesetting dimensions formerly concealed by shaded brand for preschoolers in Malaysia. Gain assumptions, a new perspective unfolds in an exclusive insight to the beacon in early the championing of the Country brand. education from Managing director and the

2018 COUNTDOWN Trends to Look Out For visage of the brand herself, Adele Chow, GOODBYE F1 Malaysia’s Final Race and savour her extraordinary passion in 110

VIETNAM : The Thriving Country at a Glance the grand endeavour of shaping the future SOUTH ISLAND, NZ : The Untouched Beauty of Aotearoa

SAY YES2BRAND : Losing the Owl’s Neck Main Section generation in a profound and impactful way. 42 2017 in Perspective

PROF. TAN SRI DATO’ WIRA DR. MOHD SHUKRI AB. YAJID 2017 has been everything but predictable.

RM15 WM MSU : AN INTELLECTUAL POWERHOUSE RM18 EM Recalling back on the events that happened WITH A WORLD-CLASS REPUTATION COMPASS and the stars we have lost, this is going to SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER’ 17 #ISSUE43 be one memorable farewell to a year full of surprises. 102 Spring 2018 Fashion Month We have transcended beyond PRoFeSSoR tAn SRI Now that the Spring 2018 collections just being a university at DAto’ WIRA DR. MoHD SHUKRI YAJID 52 Counting Down to 2018 have officially come to an end, it’s time PReSIDent & FoUnDeR oF explore the trends, events and movies set to look back at the shows and trends MSU... MAnAgeMent & ScIence UnIveRSItY (MSU) to become a hit by 2018. It’s your future, that ruled Fashion Month. We make sure that we 124 A step ahead of its competition, MSU is discover what you’re in for. produce super graduates pacing itself to be the Number One private 114 Car Review: Volvo XC90 university in the country. MSU finely displays 62 Vietnam at a Glance The XC90 is pure reflection of luxury with values - graduates who a striking balance between excellence vietnam’s shift from a centrally planned that embodies swedish design heritage. and quality, where students can enjoy top to a market economy has transformed Read everything this luxury SUV has to are really far ahead of the quality educational and lifestyle facilities the country from one of the poorest in offer through our writer Anis rahim’s equally. The BrandLaureate talks to the rest and who always give the world into a lower middle-income experience. President and Founder of MSU to find out country. vietnam now is one of the most back to the society about the story behind how the university dynamic emerging countries in east Asia became a living proof of the value of a region.Advancing rapidly in manufacturing, holistic education, something which tens of information technology and oil production, thousands of alumni certainly can testify to. let’s take a look at the thriving country as a whole. PROFESSOR TAN SRI DATO’ WIRA DR. MOHD SHUKRI YAJID President & Founder of Management & Science University (MSU) 56 11 COVER STORY

THE GLOBAL PACESETTER IN PRIVATE EDUCATION IN THIS COMPETITIVE WORLD, VERY SELDOM DO WE ENCOUNTER AN EDUCATION BODY OR INSTITUTION OF HIGHER LEARNING THAT DARES TO SWIM AGAINST THE TIDE OF DEVOLUTION AND RETURN BOLDLY TO THE ‘FIRST LOVE’ OF LEARNING AS A WHOLESOME EXPERIENCE OF SELF-GROWTH.

BY IDA IBRAHIM

Malaysia’s homegrown global institution, Management and Science University MSU offers advanced degrees at MBA, MSc and PhD levels covering Management, (MSU) comes with a reputation for education and innovation that resonates business, Accounting, Finance, educational Management and leadership across the world. The institution was founded with values and desire to transform and education (Tesl), Computer science, Information and Communication lives through learning and teaching. Throughout their history they have led the Technology, Food service Technology, biomedicine, engineering, Applied science, way and helped shape the Malaysian young workforce through values, ideas and biomedical sciences, Information Technology, Pharmacy and Clinical Pharmacy. knowledge. These programmes are offered under the school of Graduate studies (sGs) and Graduate school of Management (GsM). A premier university in Malaysia and amongst the 1.8 per cent top universities in Asia (QS world university ranking), MSU offers industry and entrepreneurial Shukri, who is optimistic and constructive in his approach to life, proudly shares embedded programmes at the postgraduate and undergraduate levels in the the journey of the university. areas of business, management, medicine, health sciences, information sciences, engineering, education and hospitality. “In the past 36 years, indeed we have had four major defining milestones. Firstly, we managed to build the public perception of that we are - an institution of “We create the difference by providing the best,” states Professor Tan Sri Dato high quality. secondly, we were one of the biggest private colleges at that time, Wira Dr Mohd Shukri Ab. Yajid as his opening remark, the Founder and President was first in the country to have ever received the LAN accreditation. Our third of MSU. defining moment was our transformation from a college into a university college. The fourth was the upgrading of our status to a full-fledged university,” explains “For the last 36 years, MSU has always been about quality as what education is Shukri. all about. Quality is always an essence of our institution and our journey in this industry has always been about providing opportunities to anyone out there. we In 2009, the educational institution started to project a new image and brand give equal opportunities for those who seek and want them,” says Shukri. as a Tier 5 Excellence rated University. Under the Rating of Higher Education

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busInessBUSINESS WORLDworld REVIEWrevIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 13

MSU integrates the global elements in educational innovations. Real world scenarios are adopted into classroom learning experience. Strategic thinking and thought-provoking case study expose and equip students with practical problem solving abilities. All modules are rigorously designed with strategic industrial and corporate input, an opening vignette to major events and real-world issues.

“MSU champions in becoming an industry-embedded university where our students get to experience real-life situations as part of their learning experiences in MSU to better prepare themselves once they graduate,

“We push our students to all corners of the world through our Global Mobility Programme. This programme helps to ignite the competitiveness in our students,” says Shukri.

Coupled by programmes, educators and infrastructure designed to attract foreign students, this exemplar private institution of higher learning is one of the pillars that is raising the nation as an education hub in the world.

“We have students from 41 countries around the world to be part of the learning experiences we offer. This further enriches the culture diversity of our teaching and learning eco-system,” says Shukri.

As an educator himself, the brand-definer cannot help but emphasise more on the importance of teaching quality to improve learning experience on the whole. GLOBAL UNIVERSITY OF CHOICE Teaching, in essence, the wise impartation of knowledge and skill, passed from the learned to the learner, with the hope that the transition flow does not simply end there.

image: An aeriel view of MSU campus in Seksyen 13, Shah Alam Due to the state of flux within business and management communities, top management must adapt rapidly to stay competitive, relevant and strategically positioned to tackle global trends by possessing the relevant post-graduate qualifications. Institutions in Malaysia (SETARA), accorded twice to MSU a holistic approach to Education, to life by the Ministry of Higher education of Malaysia (MoHe) When asked about the MSU Learning Experience, “When we first started, getting quality staff was the most challenging task. But as “MSU cHAMPIonS has helped propelled MSU to be as one of Malaysia’s best. speaking from the heart, Shukri believes that it is what all hard work pays off, today MSU is home to highly-qualified academic staff who differentiates the institution from the rest. have been with us for many, many years,” expounds Shukri. In becoMIng An “We are a serious player in the market – our aspirations have always been about building a quality institution. our “Here in MSU, we are committed in producing quality Truly, the quest for greater education never ends, and MSU champions the essence InDUStRY-eMbeDDeD achievements thus far are testimonies that we are quality graduates. we invest in building the right ecosystem to of this notion. It is quite apparent at this juncture that the super brand that is MSU UnIveRSItY WHeRe driven,” expounds Shukri. create holistic well-balanced and well-rounded graduates, is in constant motion – fluid and malleable to change, but always staying sharp Prioritising quality education, MSU incorporates 21st and ahead of its time. oUR StUDentS get to Under his leadership, MSU rose from once humble century learning in the teaching delivery focused beginnings over the last 36 years before emerging as the on producing holistic graduates. The incorporation Msu: Creating an Entrepreneurship Powerhouse exPeRIence ReAl-lIFe nation’s most popular choice for graduate employability of global mobility programmes, extensive industrial The university is savvy in how it can use its strengths synergistically to not only SItUAtIonS AS PARt rates among employers today. Tracing those that were training components into students’ learning experiences carry out its main business of education proper, but create a greater impact in successful in securing an employment within six months ensure the highest standards of impactful innovation, society at the same time with readily available resources. oF tHeIR leARnIng of their graduation, MoHe graduate tracer strategy study employability, and industrial relevancy of MSU graduates. indicates 98.6 per cent of MSU graduates with the The programmes are designed to stimulate learning and Shukri also pushes through with the development of human capital by providing exPeRIenceS In MSU achievement. revisit learning as an experience through the inclusion relevant exposure and entrepreneurship skills to his students, thus elevating to betteR PRePARe of elements such as critical thinking, collaboration, MSU’s position and graduates to have a higher expectancy of employability. “We have a high graduates’ employability rate, the highest communication and creativity. tHeMSelveS once tHeY among all universities in Malaysia,” says Shukri. Understanding how entrepreneurship play a pivotal rolein shaping successful The materials are presented in a user-friendly manner and graduates, top working force, and ultimately the nation, this leading education gRADUAte” Such are compelling words that jive well with education the lessons are graphic, dynamic and interactive, making brand also organises entrepreneurship courses and programmes. seekers who prefer higher learning institutions which the learning experience a pleasurable one as it feels generate graduates who are work-ready. exciting and like more of an adventure as opposed to the The establishment of the Leadership & Entrepreneurship Advancement Institute monotony of traditional classroom learning. (leAd), which aims to serve as a platform to support budding young entrepreneurs through allocation of seed grant, a holistic framework and integrated infrastructure nurtures the culture of entrepreneurship and leadership eco-system within MSU.

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 15

such a benevolent endeavour clearly showcases the Multi-vantage Perspective: how Msu has impacted lives ingenuity of MSU when it comes to innovation – The all charisma the of education protrudes universally, siphoning while keeping things within the scope of learning. every aspect and transcending the orbit of teaching. And “globAlISAtIon IS this would mean impacting the world through education HAPPenIng AnD It IS tHe “As a university, among the areas we are very strongeven before in, students reach tertiary education level. such an community engagement and entrepreneurship programmes. approach would mean future professional course students FUtURe. tHUS We ARe As you may know, MSU is the Best Entrepreneurial Private will readily possess a firm foundation grounded in up-to- University (MEA 2016 award) in the country,” reiterates the date knowledge. WoRKIng toWARDS oUR brand Champion. vISIon In tRUlY becoMIng When asked about the future undertaking of this evolving He added the university had built a comprehensive university, Shukri shares: A globAl UnIveRSItY ecosystem for entrepreneurship that involved students, lecturers and community engagement, across all “Globalisation is happening and it is the future. Thus we tHAt IS RooteD WItH programmes of study. are working towards our vision in truly becoming a global MAlAYSIAn vAlUeS. We university that is rooted with Malaysian values. we are “Our entrepreneurship programme is compulsory for engaged in opening offshore campuses and branch offices ARe engAgIng SoMe diploma and degree students, regardless whether they around the world. For 12 years now we have had a medical are studying business or medicine. besides that, we also campus in Bangalore, the first Malaysian Private university PlAnS In oPenIng blend our learning experience with Personal enrichment to have its medical school in an off-shore set up. Currently, oFFSHoRe cAMPUSeS Competencies (PeC) for graduates. Through PeC students’ we have three campuses overseas.” soft skills are nurtured and enhanced, AnD bRAncH oFFIceS Adding to the physical development of MSU campus in “It is also in line with the Malaysia Education Blueprint 2015-Malaysia, which will include the MSU Medical Centre ARoUnD tHe WoRlD. 2025 (Higher Education) to create holistic, entrepreneurial and the MSU:The Residence, Shukri says that both new and balanced graduates, as well as to enhance technical developments are anticipated to provide modern and well- FoR 12 YeARS noW We and vocational education and training (TveT) programmes, equipped facilities for the MSU fraternity. The MSU Medical HAve HAD A MeDIcAl Centre will provide clinical training facilities for medical “We are even committed to address the Industry 4.0 students as well as be the first such privately owned facility cAMPUS In bAngAloRe, learning environment as part of our effort to continue to by a private university. stay relevant,” says Shukri. tHe FIRSt MAlAYSIAn “We are the first private university in the country to build PRIvAte UnIveRSItY on As a successful entrepreneur himself, Shukri encouraged our own teaching hospital. We are completing the final students to be brave and advised them to be distinctive in phase of the development this year. In this year, too, we InteRnAtIonAl SHoRe. order to succeed in their fields. have recently completed the residential apartment block to house approximately 3000 of our international students, cURRentlY, We HAve Collaborative undertakings with the Higher Education SUcceSSFUllY oPeneD Ministry’s Polytechnic education department (JPP) initiated “We are optimistic that the university’s initiative will help MSU and JPP Innovative Biz Idea and Biz Plan Challenge spur medical and health sciences to a greater height,” says tHRee cAMPUSeS (IBPC) 2015, a competition seeking to unearth budding Shukri. entrepreneurs from 33 Malaysian polytechnics and a oveRSeAS.” private university. The competition aimed to create a culture In 2010, MSU became the first non-Japanese university of entrepreneurship, provide exposure and knowledge on to receive accreditation from the Alliance of business various aspects of entrepreneurship, as well as develop Education & Scholarship of Tomorrow (ABEST 21) of Japan. creative and innovative entrepreneurs of the future. The Since then, MSU has served as a board member for this competition focused on five elements, namely service andJapanese based accreditation agency. product, Internet-based businesses, shared services and outsourcing, creative multimedia content, and ICT services. MSU leads the Asean Scholars on International Education Network (Ascien) -a non-profit academic collaboration “We want to createjob seekers and job creators, among our between four other universities in the region, specifically graduates,” says Shukri. Bogor Agricultural University from Indonesia, Thammasat University (Thailand), SEAMEO-RETRAC (Vietnam); and This is MSU’s drive, heightening the awareness with regards University of Philippines Manila (the Philippines). to the scope and parameters of education; simultaneously pushing the limits of perception concerning learning from Ascien seeks to promote mobility, credit transfers, quality what it currently is to what it ought to be; simultaneously assurance and research clustering among students, thinking outside the box in every available opportunity. besides harmonising regional communications, networking and professionalism as a roadmap to the setting up of a

Shukri receiving The BrandLaureate BestBrands Awards 2016-2017: BestBrands in Education – Leadership & Human Capital Development. thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 17

Association of University Presidents IAUP, European Foundation for Management development, eFMd and the Association of Advance Collegiate schools of business, AACsb.

Through consistent pursuit in nailing excellence in education, MSU has received many accolades from local and international agencies. Among them are recognition as The Most entrepreneurial Private University from the Ministry of Higher Education and obtaining five-star ratings in QS 2016 for teaching, employability, facilities, social responsibilities and inclusiveness. And the string of achievements is certainly not destined to stop there.

on the international front, it received a Five star rating by Quacquarelli symonds (Qs), excelling in areas of Teaching, employability, Facilities, social responsibility, and Inclusiveness. 01 Being an educator at his core, Shukri emphasies that students’ learning experiences that is holistic as a way to meet market demands. And this is part of the reason why he believes in encouraging students to pursue charitable endeavors.

“We have transcended beyond just being a university at MSU. We make sure that we produce graduates with values and who would give back to the society,” says Shukri.

immortalizing the Msu Brand via the spirit of giving Exponentially delving a little deeper into the spirit behind the sharing and impartation of knowledge and skills in the desire to make the world a better place from a more informed viewpoint or stance. image: where in most instances students are equipped to decide to Shukri with participants from MSU during the ASEAN Young Women Leadership Programme definitive regional guideline. To leverage its connections and key assist in the ongoing quest of changing the world for themselves, resources, Ascien is set to further gather the collective powers of MSU is an exception to the general rule – regardless of the governments, corporations, academic institutions and communities vantage point – not escaping the eyes of the world due to its “MSU cHAMPIonS In becoMIng An through a series of profile-raising activities and membership drive transformative nature. slated between 2016 and 2019. As Shukri believes in providing equal access to education, the MSU InDUStRY-eMbeDDeD UnIveRSItY WHeRe 02 Meanwhile, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed at Foundation spends more than three million yearly on continuing oUR StUDentS get to exPeRIence MSU recently which marks the establishment of Ascien as another education, aside from awarding scholarships schemes valued over ReAl-lIFe SItUAtIonS AS PARt oF tHeIR regional drive among higher education in the Asean region. with rM60 million (Merit scholarships for students with outstanding an aim to present Asean as a hub provider for international higher academic achievement and Financial Aid scholarships to leARnIng exPeRIenceS In MSU to education, Ascien is committed to support the internationalisation of deserving students who require financial assistance). higher education within the region. betteR PRePARe tHeMSelveS once tHeY MSU Foundation places Community Engagement as a priority Shukri’s vision towards the internationalisation of the MSU by giving back to society via its CSR programmes that support gRADUAte. We PUSH oUR StUDentS to perspective of education has led to MSU being associated with and contribute to various causes and charitable organizations All coRneRS oF tHe WoRlD tHRoUgH various international organisations. Among these are the Association through numerous fundraising events and activities. Under his of Commonwealth University, ACU (UK), Association of Asia-Pacific stewardship, MSU fosters a sophisticated and socially responsible oUR globAl MobIlItY PRogRAMMe. Business School, AAPBS (NZ), Federation of the University of the network among their students by constantly engaging with local Islamic World, FUIW (Morocco), Association for the Study of Medical and international communities, industries, and even schools. tHIS PRogRAMMe HelPS to IgnIte tHe Education, ASME (UK), Association for Medical Education in Europe, The institution creatively carries out regular blood donation coMPetItIveneSS In oUR StUDentS.” AMEE (UK), Counsel for the Advancement & Support of Education, drives, charity drives, visit to refugee schools, setting-up of its CASE (USA), the Accreditation Services for International Colleges, own orphanage home – Darul Sakinah, visits to children’s homes, ASIC (UK), the European Association for International Education, visiting the sick and numerous other outreach projects. This EAIE, University Industry Innovation Network UIIN, Association engagement has successfully cultivated excellence among pupils, if International educators nAFsA, the International Council on such as the joint project with Ministry of Education Malaysia 03 Hotel, restaurant and Institution education, CHrIe, International in developing a leadership training programme among school images: 1) Orientation Week 2) Homecoming Fiesta 3) Mobility programme in sydney

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 19

principals and in-service teachers.

Furthermore, MSU encourages students to work with the indigenous people of Malaysia, orphans, environment, wellness and the urban poor, thus inculcating a positive cause of altruistic responsibilities. This will not only ensure the future graduates excel in academia, but they be armed with enhanced soft-skills and leadership qualities.

In the month of Ramadhan, as part of MSU’s Ihya Ramadan annual initiatives, MSU Foundation contributes cash and kind to various orphanages and the needy through NGOs. In 2017 alone, tithe in the form of zakat distribution in three groups including 1,026 students of MSU, 5,933 students from 273 national schools, matriculation and vocational colleges as well as the underprivileged children were among the recipients. 02

Similar events were conducted at MSU’s offshore campuses 03 04 including those in Bangalore, Colombo, Jakarta and its education centres in Kazakhstan, Myanmar and Vietnam, as well as at countries such as syria, Palestine, sudan and the rohingyas.

Endeavours such as organizing dedicatory events not only benefit the needy, but function as a real-time learning experience for the participants. At the end of the day, this ‘renewed perspective’ can instill a sort of unexplainable motivation to make the world a better place.

The philanthropist who strongly believes that ‘what goes around will come around’ urges that a more sensible approach be taken towards the realization of a developed nation – one that is more comprehensive – rather than the narrow one focusing on earning average as presently suggested.

This sends out positive vibrations, particularly in the areas images: where the ailments are uncommon and do not have the benefit 1) MBR The Largest Simultaneous Participation In A Health-Screening Session 3) MBR The Most Number of Basketball Shootouts Score from Throw Line 2) MSU Summer Programme with the International University of Health and 4) MSU Walk for Syria 01 of numbers to siphon help from the authorities on a more Welfare (IUHW) Japan. sustainable level.Truly, this is a brand that is doing its part to nurture the nurturers, and in the long run, benefits education and the nation as a whole. students - by delivering quality programmes, year in 2016-2017:and BestBrands in Education – Leadership & year out, Human Capital development. As a leader of a brand that innovates and creates its own path, “oUR RePUtAtIon IS oUR bRAnDIng. oUR Shukri, who first set up MSU in 1981,gives his take on ‘branding’ cHAllenge IS MAnAgIng PeoPle’S PeRcePtIon “How do we know that we have successfully built a Shukri closes with this statement in mind, “I love what I as he sees it: good reputation? Look at the employability figure of our do and I have always done what I love, which is education. oF tHe InStItUtIon - AnD tHIS IS WHAt oUR graduates – ninety-eight point six percent is considered The reason being is that I am always happy when I see “Our reputation is our branding. Our challenge is managing the highest among Malaysian universities. we have my students attain success. I guess that is also the reason people’s perception of the institution - and this is what our bRAnDIng IS All AboUt. We enSURe tHAt siblings from families studying here and in particular a why MSU is where it is today as it has always come from branding is all about. we ensure that our brand engages oUR bRAnD engAgeS IntellectUAllY AnD family with seven children who are all MSU graduates This the love for education that I have in me.” intellectually and emotionally with our stakeholders - our is the best kind of reputation to have for an educational eMotIonAllY WItH oUR StAKeHolDeRS - institution,” says Shukri. such are the resonating words of a respectable man who has opted to do good in order to be the change that oUR StUDentS - bY DelIveRIng qUAlItY The MSU brand skyrockets in terms of visibility and makes a differenceand inspire change in order to make a continues to have a cumulative positive impact on the difference, simply through the power of education. PRogRAMMeS, YeAR In AnD YeAR oUt” country; and when touching on the attainment of a developed nation status, Shukri hopes that MSU continues to become one of the pillars of higher education in the country. His strong commitment has made him deem worthy of the Thebrandlaureatebestbrands Awards

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 21 INTERNATIONAL

liONEl aNDRés “lEO” MEssi MaNuEl PEtER NEuER BRAND PERSONALITIES The BrandLaureate Legendary Award The BrandLaureate Legendary Award often considered the best player in the world As one of the very few exceedingly talented and regarded by many as the greatest of all footballer, Manuel Neuer profound skill and Bestowed on personalities who have contributed significantly to the world and communities through their areas of expertise, recipients of time, lionel Messi is the only player in history experience have brought him afar to becoming The BrandLaureate Awards are role models and a source of inspiration to many. Here are some of our brand personalities who have been recently to win five FIFA Ballon d’Or awards, four of one of the most notable sportsmen. As the conferred with The BrandLaureate International Brand Personality Award. Congratulations! which he won consecutively, and the first current holder of the IFFHs world’s best to win three european Golden shoes. He is Goalkeeper award, he has been described as a indeed an exceptionally multi-faceted athlete “sweeper-keeper” because of his unique playing and indeed one of the greatest footballers in style and speed when rushing off his line to DaViD BRuCE CassiDy BaRRy alaN CROMPtON giBB, CBE history. anticipate opponents. regarded by pundits as The BrandLaureate Legendary Award TThe BrandLaureate Legendary Award the best goalkeeper in the world and as one of david Cassidy is an inspirational entertainer of barry Gibb’s legacy is one that is both pacesetting the best and most complete goalkeepers of all- close to five decades who has soothed many a and pioneering, catalysed by the relentless spirit time, Neuer won the 2014 FIFA World Cup with soul and in his own unique way, defined showbiz he has displayed, in spite of the immensely trying Germany as well as the Golden Glove award for to an extent during his halcyon days. Having times in the early days when he was endeavouring being the best goalkeeper in the tournament, shone as a rousing heartthrob during the prime to get the ball rolling in different continents. As a and he is considered by some in the sport to be of his years, he has now grown to become an singer, songwriter and record producer blessed the best goalkeeper in football since Lev Yashin. inspiration to those who struggle to deal with with a high-pitched falsetto singing voice that latter-year challenges such as Alzheimer’s and resounds across the evergreen plains of ageless Dementia; not to mention folks aspiring to age immortality, gliding ahead of his time, exuding gracefully, come what may. groundbreaking and revolutionary foresight in his music and song writing ventures throughout the years, evolving his band from the Rattlesnakes to bee Gees.

MiROslaV JOsEf klOsE PROfEssOR shuJi NakaMuRa katRiNa WEBB The BrandLaureate Legendary Award The BrandLaureate Legendary Award The BrandLaureate Brand Personality Award A prolific goalscorer, Miroslav Klose was Professor Shuji Nakamura is the inventor As an Australian sporting legend, Katrina a large and powerful striker, who were of the blue light-emitting diode (LED), that webb is no stranger to a Gold medal known in particular for his ability in the led to the major breakthrough in the world podium or a star-lit stage. She has received air as a centre-forward, due to his strength, of lighting technology. In 2014, he has awards and medals most athletes only timing, elevation, and heading accuracy, as been awarded the nobel Prize in Physics dream about. she had won two Gold well as hisfinishing ability. Klose has been which proved that his invention of the led medals, and a silver medal in Atlanta 1996 BRuCE DaVEy laRRy kiNg JOhN & DORis NaisBitt particularly successful in world Cups with will not be for what it is today if not for his and at Sydney 2000 went on to win a Silver The BrandLaureate Legendary Award The BrandLaureate Hall of Fame The BrandLaureate Legendary Award – Couple 16 goals across 4 tournaments and is the strong will to make it happen. and Bronze medal. At Athens in 2004 she bruce davey is one of Hollywood’s leading - Lifetime Achievement Award Widely acknowledged as the World’s highest goal scorer at the tournament. In won another Gold Medal in the 400-metre producers, his films has indeed been most Larry King is a renowned talk-show host on Leading Futurist, Naisbitt first developed addition to that, he has also achieved the sprint and set a new Paralympic record. entertaining and delightful to many. over Tv ever whose name is tantamount with the concept of high tech, high touch in his distinction of being the highest ever goal Today, her running career is in the past, the past three decades, many of his films television and radio broadcasting, with a 1982 bestseller, Megatrends. While Doris scorer for the German national team by but her passion for helping others perform have enjoyed box-office success an won success story that is indeed ready to inspire. naisbitt is highly regarded as a leading netting a total of 71 goals and breaking at their best continues to be her greatest international claim, including several In his long and successful broadcasting observer of global social, economic and German legend Gerd Muller’s record. inspiration. she is the founding director of Oscars. His production of blockbuster films career, he has conducted more than 40,000 political trends. specializing in the area of Silver 2 Gold High-Performance Solutions, such as braveheart (1995), Apocalypto interviews and even became the first futures studies, naisbitt has had a profound and as a professional speaker she has (2006), Passion of Christ (2014) and individual to host ‘sit-downs’ with most U.S. influence on leading modern day futurists. impressed audiences at an International Hacksaw Ridge (2016), which were Presidents since the time of Gerald Ford. Author of Megatrends, co-author of Global level. stunning, bold and different; but carry a In a career spanning five decades, he has Game Change, How the Global southern powerful message that is still relevant to become legendary, by quizzing high-profile belt will reshape our world, he has been in this day and age, to help reflect on the core guests such as Madonna, Tony blair, George the limelight of the publishing world since values of faith, hope, courage an dignity as H.w. bush, bill Clinton, elizabeth Taylor, Megatrends. As a New York Times number exemplified by the main characters. Margaret Thatcher, barbara streisand and one bestseller for almost two years, it was Malcolm X, to name a few. one of publishing’s greatest success stories, For the latest updates on the discovery of our branding stars, visit our website selling more than 14 million copies in 57 www.thebrandlaureate.com or Facebook fanpage www.facebook.com/brandlaureate thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew countries. NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 23 the brief the brief *Country news

said, this included changing to native or expanding businesses involving lemak is supplied to 10 restaurants or micro small medium enterprises (sMes) also had the opportunity to savour and strategic thinking. In business, apps, adopting samsungPay and the acquisition of fixed assets such as diners a day,” he said. in Malaysia and accelerate their digital Malaysia’s favourite food such as nasi close relationship between friends chatbot. land for the construction of industrial transformation journey. lemak, roti canai and fresh coconuts. are important and the establishment and commercial buildings, ready-built He said small-scale businesses could of this association enables them to “Banks are also adopting artificial industrial or commercial buildings, be expanded through various loan As part of this partnership, The programme, which is into its fifth maintain the ties during training and intelligence such as IbM watsons plant, machinery and equipment, as facilities provided by agencies under Microsoft will offer Office 365 as a year, is a joint collaboration between encourage new participants to share to handle customer queries and well as provision of working capital the ministry, among them the national MALAYSIAN F&B FIRMS ATTRACT complimentary service for Financio’s Aeon Co (M) bhd and MdTCC, aimed experience with TUBE alumni CAPT IZHAM ISMAIL IS NEW recommend products and are investing requirement,” he said. entrepreneurial Group economic BUYERS IN THE EU current customers to enhance at supporting Malaysia sMe to expand – bernAMA MALAYSIA AIRLINES GROUP CEO in alternative security identification Fund which has helped over 300,000 Malaysian food and beverages (F&B) competitiveness and modernise their their market, especially halal food (Id) such as touch Id, voice Id and The financing would provide avenue entrepreneurs since its inception in exhibitors recorded RM71.7 million business operations. The free cloud- products to Japan. Malaysia Aviation Group and Malaysia based automated accounting software Airlines bhd announced Captain facial recognition,” it said. for local companies to be able to 1998 – bernAMA worth of sales during the recently held compete competitively with its trade fair ANUGA 2017 which took is designed for start-ups, small Besides at AEON Makuhari, AEONTaste Izham Ismail as executive director and business owners and non-accountants, of Malaysia Fair, is held simultaneously Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) HsbC said Malaysia was one of the low financing rates of 4 per cent place in Cologne, Germany. According founding members of the Association per annum for small and medium to the Malaysia external Trade and it will be the first freemium at four other AEON stores in Tokyo, designate with immediate effect. accounting application in Malaysia that namely Aeon Kasai, Aeon shinonome, Captain Izham is currently MAs chief of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) enterprises (sMes) with highest development Corporation (MATrAde), and it was primed for a digital future. financing repayment of up to 10 years this figure represented an increase of has adopted Microsoft cloud services. Aeon style Himonya and Aeon style operating officer (COO). Minamisuna. A total of 219 food and MAYBANK ISLAMIC NAMED THE for machinery or equipment financing 5.8 per cent from the RM67.77 million BEST GLOBAL ISLAMIC FINANCIAL “As ASEAN turns 50 this year, the with grace period of up to three years recorded back in ANUGA 2015. Financio provides companies access non food products by 30 Malaysian To ensure a smooth transition, a to a secure solution that tracks companies were showcased at the fair INSTITUTION growing importance of digital – nsT board executive Committee will be business finances effortlessly by this time. Apart from product sales and Maybank Islamic Bhd has emerged in place for up to six months. It will innovation will shape the next wave of A total of 34 Malaysian exporters had eonomic development,” it said HONDA MALAYSIA ANNOUNCES participated in the trade fair that took leveraging Microsoft’s cloud solutions. sampling, cooking demonstrations, as the best Global Islamic Financial be led by Chairman Tan sri Md nor Microenterprises will be able to visitors were also enthralled with Institution, its first ever, at the Global – bernAMA APPOINTMENT OF NEW CEO place from 7 to 11 October 2017. The Yusof and will include board members migrate their accounting portfolio to Malaysia’s multicultural traditional Finance Awards 2017. It was also Tan sri Krishnan Tan boon seng, Tan Honda Malaysia sdn bhd had exporters were also able to showcase announced the appointment of Toichi their innovative and award winning a more secure, stable and agile cloud music and dances–bernAMA recognised as the Best Global Sukuk Sri Zamzamzairani Isa and Sheranjiv platform with an uptime of 99.5 per Bank and Best Global Provider of sammanthan. Ishiyama as its new managing director products to 6,500 potential business and chief executive officer (CEO), partners from over 100 countries and cent. Shariah-Compliant Short-Term Investments – the bank’s second Captain Izham will assume the role following the departure of Katsuto to more than 160,000 trade visitors AGRO-BASED INDUSTRY Hayashi. Ishiyama, who is currently the from 180 countries, while situated at Through ‘Financio Connect’, businesses consecutive wins in both categories. of GCEO on December 1, 2017 upon can also collaborate seamlessly and the departure of Peter bellew, who is PROVIDES BUSINESS president and Ceo of Honda Atlas Cars the Malaysia Pavilion. OPPORTUNITIES FOR WOMEN (Pakistan) Ltd will assumed office in share documents on the platform. The largest Islamic bank in terms of currently on administrative leave, MAs Start-ups and micro SMEs can expect total assets in Asean was also named said in a statement. MIDF SETS ASIDE RM200M The agro-based industry provides Malaysia on 1 november. “The increasing consumer awareness SME CORP AIMS TO SET UP LOANS FOR AUTOMOTIVE SECTOR opportunities for women to venture in nutrition value and healthcare has to save at least 100-man hours the best Islamic Financial Institution and RM2,000 a year by moving NATIONAL TUBE ASSOCIATION in Asia Pacific, and it also clinched Captain Izham has 38 years of Malaysian Industrial development into business to strengthen the With more than 20 years of experience created a demand for functional food, Finance bhd (MIdF) is setting aside household economy, said deputy in researching markets and product healthy processed food and organic from spreadsheets to accounting NEXT YEAR the country awards for Malaysia and experience in the aviation industry, sMe Corporation Malaysia aims to set RM200 million between 2018-2020 Agriculture and Agro-based Industry planning, Ishiyama’s forte is an food in the european continent. automation, the statement added– nsT singapore. having started his career with Malaysia up the national bumiputera Youth to fund an expected 120 companies. Deputy Minister Datuk Seri Tajuddin advantage towards ensuring that These are the areas our exporters can Airlines as a pilot in 1979. As GCEO, Entrepreneur Tunas (TUBE) Association MIDF Managing Director Datuk Mohd Abdul rahman. Honda Malaysia continues its strong capitalise on when exporting F&B Maybank group head, Islamic Banking Captain Izham will be supported by next year, said its Chairman, Tan sri Ir Najib Abdullah said the launch of the momentum as the No.1 Non-National to Europe,” said MATRADE Frankfurt’s and Maybank Islamic Chief Executive a strong senior management team Dr Mohamed Al Amin Abdul Majid. Officer Datuk Mohamed Rafique comprising Chief Financial Officer, MIDF-MAI Industry 4.0 development “The ministry, through its Agro-based Vehicle Brand and No.2 in overall Total Trade Commissioner, badrul Hisham programme will help spur growth of Industry division, is always open to Industry volume (TIv). Hilal.According to badrul, Germany is Merican the awards are recognitions omar siddiq; Chief Commercial He said the establishment would automotive parts and components provide support services that involved Malaysia’s largest trading partner in of the commitment and capability Officer, Arved von zur Muehlen; Chief be done by merging all 10 state manufacturers. training to enhance the capacity of The outgoing Hayashi had successfully the EU and MATRADE is optimistic that demonstrated by the Maybank Group information Officer, Tan Kok Meng and TUBE associations to facilitate the women to become entrepreneurs,” he strengthened Honda Malaysia’s the continued participation in trade and Maybank Islamic in pursuing its Executive Counsel, Nik Azli Abu Zahar MALAYSIA CAPTIVATES JAPANESE process of monitoring, managing and “Through this strategic collaboration, said. position as the No.1 in Non-National fairs around the region will facilitate Global Islamic banking leadership – nsT CONSUMERS THROUGH AEON giving financial assistance to ensure MIDF’s role is to provide financial segment and No.2 in overall TIV and Malaysian exporters’ F&B exports to aspirations. TASTE OF MALAYSIA success for the participating youth assistance via our soft loan The seminar, which attracted 556 in the process, also attained no.1 the EU. – nsT Shoppers to the AEON Makuhari entrepreneurs. He attributed the Group’s adoption schemes,” he told reporters at the entrepreneurs, is aimed at encouraging position in terms of market share shintosin Mall, the largest shopping signing ceremony of MIDF-Malaysia women to venture into agricultural- among Honda automobile operations of Islamic First strategy has led to mall in Japan, were treated to a “This is also aimed at maintaining Automotive Institute (MAI) strategic based sector. Tajuddin said women worldwide in some of those months. Maybank Islamic being recognised spectacular taste, sight and sound of the bonding among the alumni partnership. should eradicate the attitude of ‘do not globally as one of the leading financial Malaysia at the Aeon Taste of Malaysia since TUBE was started in 2014. The know what business to undertake’ and The company achieved the highest institutions in the industry. Fair. The three-day fair was launched number of youths who have benefited It is the sixth consecutive year Mohd Najib said MIDF had assisted ‘shy to do business’. local market share in history in March by domestic Trade, Cooperatives and the automotive sector by financing 2017, at 20.5 per cent. Honda Malaysia from this programme was 1,436 and Maybank Islamic has won the Best FINANCIO AND MICROSOFT TO Consumerism (MDTCC) Minister Datuk participation has increased every year. Islamic Financial Institution Award BANKS IN MALAYSIA INVEST IN RM544.8 million through 144 loans “For businesses, there is no need to recorded 100,000 sales units in the seri Hamzah Zainuddin. since 1966, and assisted 10,598 local think of big capital only, instead, one fiscal year of April 2016 to March HELP SMES MODERNISE THEIR in Malaysia since 2012, and also the MOBILE BANKING APPS, SAYS “Those who were selected will undergo companies with total loans approved can start to become a nasi lemak 2017 as well celebrated its historical BUSINESS fourth time it has been named best HSBC It showcased a wide variety of products bootcamp training for three weeks of rM13.9 billion since its inception. supplier to a nearby restaurant or 600,000th production unit under Financio, a wholly-owned entity within in singapore from Global Finance, the Banks in Malaysia have been investing by Malaysia’s homegrown brands such with entrepreneurial learning modules official media partner of the IMF/World shop. If in the day we can supply 50 Hayashi’s watch –nsT Asian business software solutions in mobile banking application (apps) as Aeon private label, Topvalue, Ayam and field work practical training to “MIDF’s financial assistance nasi lemak packages of RM1.50 for a sdn bhd (Abss) has signed a strategic Bank 2017 annual meetings for the last two years, says HSBC Bank Brand, Teh BOH, isotonic drink 100 Plus equip themselves with entrepreneurial programme is aimed at establishing restaurant ... try to imagine the nasi agreement with Microsoft to empower – nsT Malaysia bhd. In a statement, HsbC and royal selangor. visitors at the fair knowledge, perseverance, teamwork thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 25 the brief the brief *world news

“The Coach and Kate Spade and Stuart embrace the products and soon begin targeted based on a number of key have continued to increase. while you’re seeing these markets have weitzman brands are very distinct to consider them essential to their day- demo factors, which snapchat says Apple’s brand value grew by three per incredible demand for hotels across brands and entities that have consumers to-day shopping,” said Liza Landsman, will significantly improve precision for cent, Google’s brand value increased by the entire chain scale from luxury with different attitudes and styles,” he President of Jet.com. advertisers. six per cent. down to mainstream,” he added. said. “Tapestry is a name that is not Snapchat breaks down its audience by rooted in any of these brands. Instead, Private label products have become factors including age, gender and user’s Microsoft grabbed the third spot on Even Hotels also “fits right into that it is expressive and representative a growing focus among retailers, as viewing habits in discover and our TESLA TO BUILD WHOLLY-OWNED ITALY’S GIORGIO ARMANI DETAILS the list after achieving double-digit sweet spot” of China’s new policy of all three. It’s truly a brand to allow millennials increasingly prioritize stories. The snapchat activity is part brand value percent growth. Jeff focus on health, wellness, tourism and employers and investors to feel like they TOSHIBA SEES ANNUAL LOSS OF price over brand loyalties. brandless, a of a wider campaign from sour Patch SHANGHAI PLANT SUCCESSION PLANS, SEES 5 Hansen, General Manager of branding resorts, according to barr. Tesla has reached an agreement with are part of one company.” ALMOST $1 BILLION AFTER TAX website that offers only $3 unbranded Kids that includes YouTube pre rolls PERCENT FALL IN REVENUES for Microsoft notes the company is Shanghai authorities that would make RELATED TO CHIP UNIT SALE items, launched earlier this year. and ads rolled out across Instagram and Italian veteran designer Giorgio Armani pleased with their position on the list. Kimpton will open in three new it the first foreign automaker to build The company’s long-term goals include embattled Japanese conglomerate Facebook. — Adnews said that under his succession plans “We are excited and humbled to see locations — Shanghai, Sanya, a city in its own plant in China, putting it in adding more brands while preserving its Toshiba Corp said it now expects to For Amazon and walmart, private label part of his fashion empire will be Microsoft recognized again as one of China’s Hainan province, and bali in the driver’s seat in the world’s biggest upscale image. — USA TODAY slide to a net loss of nearly US$1 billion brands are one more carrot to dangle transferred to a foundation he has the best Global brands. our employees Indonesia. even Hotels, meanwhile, is electric-vehicle market. recently created in his name and that this business year after calculating taxes in front of consumers, as both look to around the globe are obsessed with coming to China–CnbC related to the sale of its prized chip unit. become the one stop for all goods. his heirs will hold the remaining stakes finding ways to empower people The Silicon Valley electric carmaker’s of the group. and organizations to transform in an wholly-owned manufacturing facility Toshiba, which separated out the unit in Uniquely J will offer a variety of goods, increasingly digital, connected and would be built in Shanghai’s free- April as a prelude to a sale, said it was including toilet paper, coffee and In an interview with Corriere della sera rapidly changing world. our brand trade zone, the wall street Journal being taxed on the basis of assets and laundry detergent. In keeping with daily, Armani said it took 5 years to value is a testament to our customer said, quoting unnamed sources with liabilities of the transferred business at its focus on “metro millennials” the NESTLE SPEEDS UP OVERHAUL TO figure out “the right architecture” for obsession and the amazing things our knowledge of the deal, and could allow the time of the split. company has placed emphasis on items COUNTER SLOWEST GROWTH IN his succession, but still did not say who customers accomplish every day FACEBOOK LAUNCHES U.S. FOOD Tesla to dramatically lower the cost of would replace him at the helm of the that are sustainable and on-trend with DECADES – -Forbes ORDER AND DELIVERY SERVICE its cars in China. company. The latest forecasts, however, do not young consumers– REUTERS Nestle, the world’s biggest packaged COACH INC. IS CHANGING ITS Facebook Inc launched a service reflect expected gains from the 2 trillion food group, is doubling spending on its China usually requires foreign through which its U.S. users can order yen ($17.6 billion) sale as the deal has restructuring this year to up to 1 billion The 83-year old entrepreneur said NAME TO TAPESTRY TO REFLECT food for take-away or delivery directly automakers to set up joint ventures that sales at the group, Italy’s second ALL THREE OF ITS BRANDS yet to receive regulatory approval. Swiss francs ($1 billion) to cope with its with local Chinese partners, which through its app or website. Facebook weakest sales growth in more than two biggest fashion house after Prada, will Coach Inc. is changing its name to said it has partnered with restaurants involves splitting profits and giving Toshiba said that due to the tax impact, decades. fall by 5 percent both this year and Tapestry Inc. to reflect the company’s including Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc, away some technology, though they next and will start growing again from it expects a loss of 110 billion yen ($970 broader brand umbrella. The New York- Jack in the Box Inc, Five Guys and Papa million) in the year to March, instead Europe’s largest company by market also avoid import tariffs. 2019– REUTERS based luxury company, most famous John’s International Inc. of its previously forecast profit of 230 value is under pressure to improve INTERCONTINENTAL IS BRINGING for its designer leather handbags, China’s electric-vehicle market is billion yen. It kept its annual revenue MONDELÉZ FIRST BRAND TO returns from activist investor daniel TWO NEW HOTEL BRANDS TO acquired Kate Spade New York last The company said in a blog post that and other profit forecasts unchanged. PARTNER WITH SNAPCHAT FOR loeb, whose Third Point hedge fund already the world’s largest and is summer for US$2.4 billion, along expected to continue growing fast, ASIA it has also signed on food ordering TARGETED LENSES. revealed a US$3.5 billion stake in June. U.K.-based InterContinental Hotels with the shoe and accessory company especially since the government plans services such as eatstreet, delivery.com, Toshiba, desperate for funds to cover Mondeléz is the first Australian brand to It must also review its business model Group announced it is planning to Stuart Weitzman in May 2015 for $574 to require that all automakers’ sales DoorDash and Olo. Users will have to go liabilities arising from U.S. nuclear unit use a new feature from snapchat that and brand portfolio to ensure its bring two of its hotel brands to China million. include a certain percentage of electric to the “order food” section on Facebook’s westinghouse, agreed last month to sell allows brands to target audiences with products stay appealing to consumers and Asia Pacific in an attempt to vehicles from 2019. “explore” menu, which will show them the unit - the world’s second biggest specific lenses. Mondeléz has partnered who often prefer fresh, local foods APPLE TOPS LIST OF capture new breeds of consumers “Following the acquisition of Stuart a list of participating restaurants in the producer of NAND flash memory chips - with snapchat in promotion of its sour to nestle’s Maggi soups or KitKat — the wellness enthusiasts and the weitzman and later Kate spade, vicinity through which they can place Beijing is also mulling plans to to a group led by bain Capital. – REUTERS Patch Kids range for Halloween. chocolate bars. INTERBRAND’S BEST 100 GLOBAL wealthy. we’ve evolved into a multi-brand their order. ban fossil-fuel burning cars by an BRANDS organization,” said Coach Chief unspecified date, following decisions The partnership marks the first brand organic sales rose 3.1 per cent in the some brand values remain strong or The new brands are Kimpton Hotels Executive Officer Victor Luis. “With that by France and britain to outlaw the A year back, the company has said its in Australia to use snapchat’s newest third quarter, up from 2.4 per cent continue to change. others appear and restaurants, a luxury boutique evolution we made the decision to sale of such vehicles from 2040 to U.S. users would be able to order food functionality - demo-targeted Audience in the second, in line with analysts’ on the scene or create a revamped chain that operates mostly in the change our corporate name to Tapestry through a restaurants’ Facebook page. limit emissions. image. For over 18 years, global lenses. The new feature enables expectations in a reuters poll. United States, and Even Hotels, which Inc. with the objective to create a Facebook’s shares were up nearly 1 Mondeléz to target individuals with a Performance was helped by improved brand consultancy Interbrand has focuses on incorporating health and platform for our shared values and percent in early trading on Friday. Tesla had said that it was in talks with range of spooky face lenses. trading in europe and Asia. been tracking and ranking brand wellness into the travel experience. to avoid any confusion between the shares of food order and delivery the shanghai government and that it values. As such, their research has company and any specific names and would detail its China manufacturing service GrubHub Inc dropped nearly 3 JET LAUNCHES ITS OWN PRIVATE To date, snapchat lenses in Australia still, nestle forecast growth for the helped determine what makes brands Bringing the high-end Kimpton label the belief that the brands would meld plans by the end of the year. More percent. LABEL BRAND, UNIQUELY J have only been available to advertisers full year around the 2.6 per cent it important in the eyes of customers and to China and Asia Pacific makes together.” than half a million “new-energy” cars ewalmart’s Jet.com launched its private for purchase as a nationwide takeover. generated for the first nine months, investors. sense given the speedy pace at which were sold in China last year, and the GrubHub’s shares had also dropped label business Uniquely J, as it continues The lens activation will run in the implying a slowdown in the fourth InterContinental’s business in those As the company becomes a collective last month after Amazon restaurants its push to tap urban millennials and government is targetting sales in the Apple topped the list followed by lead up to Halloween – targeted at quarter and the year as a whole. last regions is growing, the multinational house of high-end products, Luis teamed up with Olo, whose network its corporate parent fortifies its fight millions in coming years Google and Microsoft. Apple and people 14-24, in a campaign created year’s sales rose 3.2 per cent. “Going hotel group’s Ceo, Keith barr said, confirmed that all of the brands will of restaurants includes Applebee’s and against Amazon. – AFP Google have now held these positions in conjunction with Mondeléz’s media forward, everyone is well advised to be retain their individual names. Chipotle.– REUTERS for five consecutive years. In the last agency, Carat. cautious and you see that reflected in “As urbanization moves out further, “We’re excited to introduce Uniquely year, though, both their brand values our expectations for the fourth quarter,” J to consumers, confident that they’ll Campaigns will now be able to be Chief Executive Mark Schneider.– REUTERS

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 27 tHe DIARY tHe DIARY

LANGHAM HOTELS & RESORTS IKEA LAUNCHES #1 Hotel in New York City 10th of October, 2017 – IKEA is well known for stocking Additionally, many of the lurvig products are designed to PET LINE everything you could possibly need to make a house integrate seamlessly into the Ikea furniture you already 19th of October, 2017 Condé nast Traveler announced the results of its 30th a home (plus plenty of things that you don’t need, yet have around your house. The lurvig scratching mat annual Readers’ Choice Awards with Langham Place, New York – soon to be Lurvig: Just for Design Savvy Pets somehow still end up buying). one thing they’ve always attaches perfectly to the leg of the swedish retailer’s The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue - being recognized as the #1 Hotel lacked however is a collection of furniture specifically tables while, without its legs, the aforementioned luxury in New York City with a score of 98.22. As a result of this distinction, The designed for pets, but IKeA aims to change all of that cat house, a smaller cat bed, and an attaching tunnel all Langham in New York is also #2 of The 10 Best Hotels in the U.S. and #30 with its new range called lurvig. IKeA recently began slide right into the Kallax shelving unit. out of 50 of The best Hotels in the world. rolling out its “Lurvig” collection of pet furniture and accessories—and your furry friends are going to want all so far, the collection is available only in Japan, France, The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue is centrally located at 400 Fifth of it. Canada, the U.S., and Portugal, Mashable reports, Avenue, between 36th and 37th Streets. Its 234 guest rooms and suites are but hopefully it will soon be available to pet owners some of the largest in the city. The Langham boasts a residentially-inspired According to the Ikea catalog, the “comprehensive” worldwide. In the meantime, Ikea-loving pet parents aesthetic, topped off by a multi-million dollar permanent art collection collection, which is named after the swedish word for in those lucky countries have already expressed their featuring the works of Alex Katz and two luxurious penthouses and a brand- “shaggy,” was developed by “pet loving designers with excitement over the collection on social media and new Presidential suite designed by French retailer roche bobois. support from trained veterinarians.” It contains dozens of posted photos of their dogs and cats living their best super affordable items for both cats and dogs, ranging lives in their lurvig beds. HONG KONG The Langham features a full-service spa and fitness center, Chuan Body in price from 79 cents for a food bowl to $54.98 for a + Soul, offering a comprehensive menu of skincare, massage and body “cat house on legs with pad.” There are also brightly treatments. Ai Fiori, a Michelin-starred restaurant from Michael White’s patterned pet bed covers, plush cushions in a variety of TRADE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL Altamarea Group, and bar Fiori, a destination bar and lounge, are both located on the hotel’s second floor. The Langham also has the capabilities to sizes, reflective leashes and collars, a handy pet travel Mega Promotion of In Style*Hong Kong bag, and plenty of toys, including a 99-cent flying disc host meetings, events and social gatherings of all sizes in The Gallery at The Langham, a full floor of function space on the hotel’s third floor. and a cat-friendly pom-pom toy. 17th of October, 2017 –The Hong Kong Trade development Council (HKTdC) is staging the mega promotion event “In Style*Hong Kong” in the Malaysian over 300,000 readers submitted millions of ratings and tens of thousands of capital Kuala lumpur to promote Hong Kong’s advantages as an international comments, voting on a record-breaking 7,320 hotels and resorts, 610 cities, business centre and a lifestyle trendsetter. by organising a series of events 225 islands, 468 cruise ships, 158 airlines, and 195 airports. and engaging Hong Kong’s top business professionals and leading brands, the event also seeks to strengthen collaboration between Hong Kong and The Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards are the longest-running Malaysian businesses and to create more opportunities. and most prestigious recognition of excellence in the travel industry and YOUNG LIVING SCENTS are commonly known as “the best of the best of travel.” Under Editor in Chief Sharing Session with Dr. Lindsey Elmore Peter wong, HKTdC regional director of southeast Asia and south Asia, said Pilar Guzmán, the readers’ Choice Awards have become more selective and that the Kuala lumpur event follows two successful In style*Hong Kong specific to the passions that inspire today’s travelers. campaigns in Jakarta in 2015 and Bangkok in 2016. “As the fourth-largest 13th of October, 2017 – Young living essential oils, lC is who you are at the very core. Like personal care, using AseAn economy, Malaysia has achieved steady economic growth over the the world leader in essential oils and has been providing essential oils is never about ‘one size fits all’. Since past few years,” said Mr Wong. “The development and consumption power the highest quality plant based products to customers everyone is so different in every aspect, there is really of Kuala lumpur should not be underestimated. Trade between Hong Kong for more than 20 years. Its proprietary Seed to Seal®only one person who knows what you want and need and Malaysia has always been frequent. In 2016, Malaysia was Hong Kong’s process ensures exacting standards are met every step – you. 10th-largest trading partner and fourth-largest among ASEAN countries. Our of the way, from seed to seal. This commitment stems campaign in Kuala lumpur focuses on promoting Hong Kong’s professional from the company’s stewardship toward the earth and its In the journey of developing a sense of one’s self and services and leading brands. Our objective is to forge wider cooperation and people all over the world. needs, be it physical, mental or emotional aspects, scents to generate more business opportunities for both cities.” are an integral part of this process. Quality essential oils Young living held the scents of self media sharing in itself contain natural, unmanufactured scents from Key events of In style*Hong Kong include a symposium, an expo and gala session which focused on suiting essential oils usage its essence, providing benefits in all aspects beyond dinner in early november, as well as a series of citywide promotion events that to an individual’s preference and need with key opinionthe olfactory satisfaction. with so many individuals is currently underway until the end of november. leader dr. lindsey elmore, brand Ambassador of Young with different needs and preferences to cater to, Young living. Living, essential oils market leader, has over 80 single, The In style*Hong Kong Symposium will be held on 7 November at the unblended essential oils to choose from; not including Mandarin oriental Kuala lumpur. HKTdC Chairman vincent Hs lo and she shared on Young living’s passion for product quality, the rest of their other essential oil blends and products. Rimsky Yuen, Secretary for Justice, the Government of Hong Kong Special as well as facilitated a Make & Take DIY segment on how Administrative Region (HKSAR), will officiate at the opening ceremony. Several to customise and apply essential oils for personal care For more information, visit www.youngliving.com/en_MY Hong Kong and Malaysian business leaders and government officials will also in daily life. speak at the event.

Using essential oils as natural scents is not just about The main symposium will be chaired by Professor royce Yuen, Ceo, Malogic, taking care of your own well-being by avoiding synthetic, who will be joined by other speakers, including Joseph Phi, President, LF manufactured scents. It is an avenue for personalising logistics; Kevin Huang, Ceo, Pixels ltd; and nicholas Ho, deputy Managing and creating your scents of self which ultimately reflect Director, hpa. The speakers will examine how Hong Kong service companies can help Malaysian companies expand their business.

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 29 tHe DIARY

THE BRANDLAUREATE DIPLOMAT AWARD H.E. Dr. Huang Huikang

27th October, 2017 – A farewell receptionwas held at st Forces, General Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Zulkifeli bin Mohd. Zin.Therepublic of China to Malaysia. Through his efforts, he has regis Hotel, Kuala lumpur to bid farewell toAmbassador award wasin recognition of dr Huang’s role in promoting led a very positive and warm relationship between both of People’s republic of China to Malaysia, His excellency strong bilateral relationship between People’s republic of countries on matters relating to politics, social, education, Dr Huang Huikang, who had just completed his four years China and Malaysia. culture and arts. posting in Malaysia. Widely known as the most active and outspoken diplomat Under his leadership, China and Malaysia have maintained At the reception, the Asia Pacific Brands Foundation in Malaysia, dr Huang earned the respect of the local an excellent relationship where he has helped promote and awardedH.E. Dr Huang HuikangwithThe BrandLaureate Chinese community after four glorious years in Malaysia. facilitate government to government relations between diplomat Award, an honor which is conferred to Under his leadership, he successfully pushed Malaysia- the two countries. Additionally, he contributed significantly outstanding diplomats who have been committed and China bilateral ties to a record high. during his tenure, to the promotion of trade and investment relations as well dedicated to their positions and performed well in their China-Malaysia trade breached the highest for the firstas providing the needed consular assistance to Chinese countries of posting. time in 2015 and investments from China galloped to thevisiting in Malaysia. top spot. Presenting the Award on stage to dr Huang were Chairman during his time in Malaysia, he has endeared himself to of the Asia Pacific Brands Foundation, YBhg Tan Sri Rainer Apart from carrying out his official duties, Dr Huang is bless everyone with his captivating personality. surely, Althoff, dr. KKJohan, President of The brandlaureate, known for his outreach activities of visiting Chinese guilds, Malaysia will remember him for his strong leadership in President of the Malaysian Chinese Association and giving donations to schools, as well as spending Chinese spearheading and strengthening the Malaysian-Chinese Minister of Transport, Yb dato’ sri liowTiong lai, Ybhg Tan New Year with ordinary folks. He exemplified tremendous relationship and also for his kind, warm and sophisticated sri Michael Yeoh and former Chief of Malaysian Armed dedication to his position as the Ambassador of the People’s personality. THE BRANDLAUREATE SPECIAL EDITION AWARDS 2017 VIETNAM Launch and Press Conference

31st October, 2017 – The Asia Pacific Brands Foundation during his speech dr KKJohan, President of The officially launched The BrandLaureate Special Edition BrandLaureate said, “We come to Vietnam for a purpose World Awards - Vietnam at its Press Conference held on and that purpose is to make Vietnam brands great and 31st October 2017 at The Reverie Saigon Hotel in Ho Chi make Vietnam proud. That is the only reason why we Minh City, vietnam. The press conference was attended are here for.we are here to create that awareness that by Chairman of the Asia Pacific Brands Foundation, your greatest asset is your brand and your brand is your Mr rainer Althoff, President of The brandlaureate, dr greatest possession that you all can be proud of.After KKJohan and Ceo of The brandlaureate, Ms Chew bee this special edition Award, we will introduce The Peng. Also present are recipients of The brandlaureate BrandLaureate Best Brands Awards in Vietnam in 2018. Awards vietnam; members of the media and invited we are here to stay and we are here to hold your hands guests. to make your brands great.”

The number one premier brands and branding Awards The official launch saw Dr KKJohan and Tan Sri Rainer in the world, The brandlaureate special edition world Althoff unveiled The brandlaureate special edition Awards will be landing to vietnam shores on december World Awards 2017 - Vietnam trophy and certificate to 7th, 2017. Organised by the Asia Pacific Brands Foundation all attendees. The Awards gala dinner will be held in (APbF), the world’s only brands and branding foundation, Ho Chi Minh City at the most exclusive and prestigious this special and prestigious The brandlaureate special 6 star hotel, The reverie saigon. It will be attended edition world Awards is exclusively reserved for the top by the country’s leaders, top corporate and business and leading brands in vietnam that have successfully personalities, industry movers and shakers as well as built their brands. These brands are well respected leading personalities and celebrities. and admired in the business community and amongst consumers.

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 31

The winners of The brandlaureate brand The theme for this year’s award is iCONs – a ICON Leadership Awards 2017 were Life of Significance. ICons create their own announced at its gala dinner, held at The paths, innovate their own methods and set In his welcome speech, dr KKJohan, President of The highlight of the night was the presentation other Award categories include The brandlaureate Majestic Hotel, Kuala Lumpur on 28th Augustthe bar high. ICons set out to live a life The brandlaureate highlights the theme for the of The brandlaureate Quintessential brand ICon Premier brand Icon leadership Award, The 2017. Organized by the Asia Pacific Brandsthat defies all odds. An ICON is a tower of night, leadership Award to YAbhg Tun Jeanne Abdullah, brandlaureate Most eminent brand ICon leadership Foundation (APbF), The brandlaureate brand strength, brave, tough and bold enough to wife of the 5th Prime Minister of Malaysia Award, The brandlaureate business entrepreneur ICon leadership Awards recognize leaders go the distance. ICons are passionate about “BrandLaureate’s ICONS live a life of significance and who is the Chancellor of Open Universitybrand ICon leadership Award, The brandlaureate who are in a league of their own and whose their goals and speak from their hearts, which is the theme of this year’s award, A Life of Malaysia, Patron of Malaysian Paralympic Council Grand Master brand ICon leadership Award and achievements have contributed significantly instinctively knowing the right decision and Significance. These brandlaureate ICons have and Chairman of Landskap Malaysia. The brandlaureate Industry Champion brand to the development of their countries and course of action to take, thus enabling them to gone above and beyond the trusted and tested ICon leadership Award. communities. convince, persuade, influence and ultimately into unchartered territory. while most people go The award presentation was followed by The win supporters and adversaries alike. Many for the safe, tried and tested route, they create brandlaureate nation building brand ICon For the very first time, The BrandLaureate official Over 700 guests comprising Malaysia’s top can achieve success but not everyone can live their own paths and innovate their own methods. Leadership Award. Recipients were YB Datuktheme Seri song was launched during the gala dinner. corporate leaders, brand owners and leading a life of significance like real ICONS! They set out to live a life that defies all odds. Hishammuddin Tun Hussein Minister of defence The BrandLaureate theme song, titled “That’s You” personalities were in attendance. Gracing Many can achieve success but not everyone can of Malaysia who received the Brand Influencer is performed and composed by Award-winning the night as the Guest of Honor is Yang Plated in 24-karat solid gold, The BrandLaureate be significant. Success is measurable as in howICon, he was represented on stage by Mr. Adam composer, dato’ wah Idris. He famously composed Amat Berbahagia Tun Dato’ Sri Haji Abdullahbrand ICon leadership Awards trophy is much are you worth, what is the value of your Abu Hanipah, Principle Private secretary to the the KL Commonwealth Games 98’ “Standing in the Ahmad badawi, the 5th Prime Minister of designed to be refined, sturdy and prestigious. business. You can put a value on success but where Minister with special Functions in the Prime Eyes of the World” and reorchestrated Malaysia’s Malaysia and Patron of the Asia Pacific Brandswith both hands stretched high and standing significance is concern, you cannot put a value to Minister’s Department. YAB Dato’ Seri DiRaja Dr.national anthem, “Negaraku”. Foundation. other prominent attendees on a solid base, the trophy reflects the ICON’s it, yet the value is so great and monumental.” Zambry Abd Kadir, Menteri Besar of Perak received includes YAB Dato’ Seri DiRaja Dr. adaptability Zambry and agility to fly with times, the Game Changer ICon while Ybhg Professor The night was followed by a presentation of the bin Abd Kadir, Chief Minister of Perakbringing and in winds of change that transform for He also added, “I am so proud of all the icons here Emeritus Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Paduka Dr. Lim Kok Wing,brandlaureate business world review Cover Issue YB Datuk Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah,the better. Each trophy is a finely handcrafted tonight. I wish you all the best as you move on President & Founder of Limkokwing University ofby Managing editor, Ms Ida Ibrahim to YAb dato’ Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youthmasterpiece & of art intended to reflect the to achieve more milestones in what you set out Creative Technology was awarded the Unity andSeri DiRaja Dr. Zambry Abd Kadir, Menteri Besar Sports Sarawak. standard of excellence. to do. We know that you will never rest on your Harmony ICon followed by YAbhg Toh Puan dato’ of Perak. During the gala dinner, guests were laurels of success. You will be forever pushing Seri Dr. Aishah Ong, Pro-Chancellor of University presented with an exquisite dinner spread and the envelope to seek more as no valley is tooof Malaya who received The brandlaureate Hall entertained with performances by emcee noixe deep and no mountain too high for you to climb. of Fame – lifetime Achievement brand ICon & DJ Hawk, violinist, Dr. Joanne Yeoh, a powerful brandlaureate ICons, the legacies that you have leadership Award. performance by Malaysia’s singing sensation, shila built are priceless and a great source of inspiration Amzah and dayang nurfaizah. for all of us and the future generations to come.” thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 33 The BrandLaureate Nation Building Brand ICON The BrandLaureate Nation Building Brand ICON Leadership Award 2017 - Brand Influencer ICON Leadership Award 2017 - Game Changer ICON

LEADERSHIP is about taking life by the horns and taking charge of The status of an ICON is unquestionable. Working hard to achieve a vision, your life. not settling for bare success, the ICon ascends beyond mere the ICon has gained immeasurable success by overcoming obstacles in existence to A lIFe oF sIGnIFICAnCe, going above and beyond the many forms. From the dirt of the street, up to the penthouses of towering trusted and tested into uncharted territory. skyscrapers, the long climb to the top and ultimate attainment of grand leadership status is like the icing on the cake of a challenging quest. Everybody has to start somewhere, and then make something of themselves. while most people go for the safe, tried and tested, ICons ICons use their leadership not only in business, but also in the service create their own paths, innovate their own methods, and set the bar high. of humanity through philanthropy, and support of charitable causes. Not contented with just existing, ICONS set out to live a life that defies Anybody can be rich, but few are wealthy. wealth in its purest form does all odds. An ICon is a tower of strength, brave, tough and bold enough to not only constitute material wealth, but includes wealth of knowledge, The BrandLaureate Quintessential go the distance. experience, love, support, and above all, significant leadership. To be truly Brand ICON Leadership Award 2017 wealthy, one must live a holistic life filled with meaningful experiences Many can achieve success, but not everyone can live A LIFE OF SIGNIFICANCE. and deeds. ICons are those with the biggest hearts, and they are the It is not only about having it that matters but being significant is at thebiggest benefactors of all. Once a leader has built an efficient and The BrandLaureate Nation Building Brand ICON The BrandLaureate Hall of Fame Lifetime core of the very mechanism that transcends everything one stands for. A effective empire, the next stage is in breathing new meaning into their Leadership Award 2017 - Unity & Harmony ICON Achievement Brand ICON Leadership Award 2017 LIFE OF SIGNIFICANCE is a life of greatness. not only a life well lived, but purpose in life, answering a higher calling... which is to raise humanity an example to be followed and embodied. A life of significant leadership from despair to a higher plane of existence. personified. Great leaders have clear vision, and are able to steer their team to work towards significant and meaningful goals, performance Is success the end of the road? do you stop at success? never! success improvement efforts and key results.ICONS are passionate about their must inspire one to ascend to the next level – to live a lIFe oF goals and speak from their hearts, instinctively knowing the right decision SIGNIFICANCE. Every ICON has a story. Is your story significant? Is your and course of action to take, thus enabling them to convince, persuade, life a lIFe oF sIGnIFICAnCe? influence and ultimately win supporters and adversaries alike. be The ICon! live the lIFe oF sIGnIFICAnCe and leave a leGACY oF The most important ability in significant leadership is the gift to determine sIGnIFICAnCe forthe leaders of the next generation. what really matters and what you hope to achieve. With knowledge and awareness, a leader of substance follows an inner calling from their soul, YOU ARE THE ONE! defines what they want, and takes action on what they believe is right.

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 The BrandLaureate 35 Business Entrepreneur Brand ICON Leadership Award 2017

The BrandLaureate Premier Brand ICON Leadership Award 2017

The BrandLaureate Grand Master Brand ICON Leadership Award 2017

The BrandLaureate Most Eminent Brand ICON Leadership Award 2017

The BrandLaureate Industry Champion Brand ICON Leadership Award 2017

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 37 A life of significAnce THE CLASSIC ICONS : PREMIER BRAND ICON LEADERSHIP AWARDS 2017

YBhg Tan Sri Robert Tan YBhg Tan Sri Datuk Seri YBhg Tan Sri Dato’ YBhg Dato’ Lim Kuang Sia YBhg Datuk Andrew YBhg Dato’ Sri Ir. DR KKJOHAN Hua Choon Tan Kean Soon Dr R Palan Managing Director & Chief Executive T.K. Lim Kunasingam A/L V. Chairman & Non-Executive Director Executive Deputy Chairman Chairman Officer Kossan Rubber Industries Managing Director Sittampalam Marco Holdings Berhad T7 Global Berhad SMRT Holdings Berhad Berhad SOGO (K.L.) Department Store Co-Founder & Executive Director Sdn Bhd HSS Engineers Berhad

THE VISIONARY ICONS : MOST EMINENT BRAND ICON LEADERSHIP AWARDS 2017

YBhg Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr. YBhg Dato’ Seri Jamil Bidin YBhg Datuk Badlisham YBhg Datuk (Dr) YBhg Dato’ Dr. YBhg Dato’ Izham bin Yusoff Puan Puteri Mariana Hj Yahaya Ibrahim Chief Executive Officer Bin Ghazali Aminar Rashid Bin Salleh Abd Latif Mohmod Group Managing Director Abdul Majid Executive Chairman Halal Industry Development Managing Director President & Chief Executive Officer Director General Bina Darulaman Berhad Chief Executive Officer Yahaya Ibrahim Educational Corporation (HDC) Malaysia Airport Holdings Berhad Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Forest Research Institute Malaysia Mutiara Teknologi (M) Sdn Bhd THE LEGENDARY ICONS Services Sdn Bhd Sdn Bhd

THE BUSINESS ICONS : BUSINESS ENTREPRENEUR BRAND ICON LEADERSHIP AWARDS 2017

THE BRANDLAUREATE QUINTESSENTIAL BRAND ICON LEADERSHIP AWARD 2017 YBhg Dato’ Teh Kean Ming YBhg Dato’ Ong Theng Soon YBhg Dato’ Sri Princess Dr. Cher Ng Tee Chee Seng YABhg Tun Jeanne Abdullah Managing Director Executive Director Becky M. Leogardo Managing Director President cum Techno Adviser JKG Land Berhad Binastra Land Sdn Bhd Founder Zouk Kuala Lumpur & Nano Silver Manufacturing Sdn Bhd BML, Alexa & Gluta Products Co-Founder TREC Kuala Lumpur THE BRANDLAUREATE PREMIER AWARD 2017 THE CELEBRITY ICONS : GRAND MASTER BRAND ICON LEADERSHIP AWARDS 2017

THE BRANDLAUREATE NATION BUILDING BRAND ICON LEADERSHIP AWARD 2017 THE BRANDLAUREATE NATION BUILDING - GAME CHANGER ICON Dayang Nurfaizah YBhg Professor Dato’ Dr. Joanne Yeoh YBhg Dato’ Kee Hua Chee Shila Amzah The King Charles Troupe BRAND ICON LEADERSHIP AWARD 2017 YAB Dato’ Seri DiRaja Dr. Diva Wah Idris Violinist Writer & Blogger Singer and Songwriter Famous basketball unicyclists Composer, Musician & Producer - BRAND INFLUENCER ICON Zambry Abd Kadir YB Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein THE SPORTS ICONS : GRAND MASTER BRAND ICON LEADERSHIP AWARDS 2017 INTERNATIONAL BRAND PERSONALITY AWARD 2017

YBhg Datuk Marina Chin Shalin Zulkifli Khairul Hafiz Jantan Cheong Jun Hoong Joseph Schooling Chef De Mission, Malaysian Ten Pin Bowler Athlete Diver Swimmer Contingent, SEA Games 2017, National, Asian and Olympic Majlis Sukan Negara Malaysia Champion Anggun Singer and Songwriter

ICONIC BRANDS : INDUSTRY CHAMPION BRAND ICON LEADERSHIP AWARDS 2017

Brunsfield Chow Tai Fook Mah Sing Great Eastern Philips Public Bank Public Mutual Kossan Integrated Real Estate Solutions Jewellery Property – Premium Lifestyle Life Assurance Consumer Lighting Solutions Banking Financial & Wealth Planning Manufacturing – Gloves Developer – Unit Trust

THE BRANDLAUREATE HALL OF FAME THE BRANDLAUREATE NATION BUILDING BRAND ICON Limkokwing University SCS MARDI Sarawak Convention Malaysia Airport Sothys Toyochem LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT BRAND ICON LEADERSHIP AWARD 2017 of Creative Technology Dairy Butter & Cheese R&D – Agrofood Bureau Holdings Beauty Care Printing Ink & Solutions Globalising Malaysian MICE & Destination Branding Global Airport Management LEADERSHIP AWARD 2017 - UNITY & HARMONY ICON Education YABhg Toh Puan Dato’ Seri YBhg Professor Emeritus Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Paduka Dr. Aishah Ong Dr. Lim Kok Wing thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 39

.

thE NOCtuRNal gaZE Of thE OWl kalEiDOsCOPE Of POsitiVity: to see things Differently through the Portal of MakE fRiENDs, NOt ENEMiEs Branding thE full-RaDius ROtatiON Of thE OWl Imagine enveloping your brand in a bubble of energy that is so positive that every arrow of the competition A Different Perspective – Shaking Hands in the Name and elements bounce off it. sounds impossible? not of Branding LOSING THE OWL’S NECK really – for that is the magic of branding. The positive energy that comes from the art of Branding drives me to make friends, not enemies. It is like waking up to a beautiful sunrise daily. It is like having a rainbow kiss your senses after the rain. It is Competition is good. but in this era of convergence like the scent of blooms in spring. It is like the sound of where demand is high, the world is super connected a flock of birds singing melodiously during the prime and has grown seemingly small; working in tandem of the mating season. branding is that beautiful! And with others is paramount for brand survival and oh, what a new perspective it gives to life! sustainability. The positive and amicable vibe that comes from branding magnetizes and draws even ever since I started to view my very existence from the our competitors towards us, to provide support where higher vantage point of brands and branding, I feel they cannot, and to be credited for the very referral of the quality of my life as a whole has elevated. every a reliable brand. step forward is magical, as if there are ‘invisible strings’ of a higher order guiding my very footsteps with a new My newfound vision disallows me from flying along unction like never before. If I am to be Pinocchio, then any trajectory that risks negativity. All shadows flee branding has transformed me into a ‘real boy’ and as the light rises in the sky. For Branding is that Dr KKJohan elevated me into the realm of the living! light. branding is the ‘universal language of love’ in multifarious arenas – including business, sports & I cannot help but overstate how happy I am to step entertainment, academic and all others. An owl can turn and look into this new post-Branding horizon. The first step in Branding is allowing the move to change you, not just And by embracing the truth of what branding is, all behind. Not only is this on the outside, but within. I feel that there is no room things negative have left me… I am all in all a new bizarre, but it is in fact a for any negativity, simply because all my attention is creation, so to speak. Hence, I cannot bear anything focused on new realms of brand excellence. As I strive unconstructive in me or harbour negativity towards survival skill cum hunting to reach and traverse greater plateaus in branding; anyone – for pure branding (branding that is in its and therein the surroundings traversed tend to truest form) encompasses all that is good! mechanism which serves as a emanate a more positive vibe. useful purpose in the wild. In Above and beyond that, I find the phenomenon of This is the sort of overriding excitement I simply Branding to be like a mirror of the soul – it is able to Branding, the same positives cannot keep to myself! Everyone, I mean everyreflect one’s own goodness from the inside out; and apply; but in truth, when it person who represents their brand – be it personal, our own perception of others becomes transparent professional, or national – should have a feel of this. in the way we conduct our brand in the eyes of the comes to fostering a positive oh, what a feeling indeed! world. Either way you look at it, frictionless Branding outlook, it is far better to not generates a beautiful impression…cradled in amity. “Branding is everything positive; look behind but keep your eyes there is no negative in Branding.” oh, branding, you are so wonderful! (How could have I ever survived without you before this?) fixed forward. In other words, it is better to lose the owl’s neck.

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 41

“The greatness of a champion Brand can be known from the formidability of its archrival. And there can be no greater respect earned than one that is given “Branding has made me more forgiving.” by a competitor Brand who has become a friend.” kalEiDOsCOPE Of POsitiVity: BRaND yOuR NEst fiRst kalEiDOsCOPE Of POsitiVity: thE DOMiNiON Of thE OWl fRiCtiONlEss BRaNDiNg thE REgal staNCE Of thE OWl start Right With Country Branding There is an old saying which we are all familiar with, Charity Preserving the Excellent Plumage begins at home. I believe, not just charity, but nearly everything, How, you may ask, could one preserve the beauty of this moment begins at home. Anything and everything has to start somewhere in Branding? After all, folks believe that beautiful moments pass, – but can extend to anywhere, with no quantifiable limits. and wonderful things are not meant to last. well, the truth is, once you have found something beautiful, the world is just not big The nest is the formative venue of everything. with the right enough to contain it! It is no longer subject to the natural laws, formation, the young will be able to go out and handle the world but becomes supernatural by way of experiential immortality. – ultimately building a nest of their own. Therefore, in everything that we do, in essence we are inadvertently branding the nation. oh, what a wonderful thing I have found in branding! branding every breath we exhale in the name of branding, is an expression is so spectacular that I simply cannot go backwards. Everything of love for the motherland. Every Brand-related triumph is a about it is evolving (and by evolving I mean moving forward). so resounding praise for the land. every failure to brand better how could it be possible for me to ever backslide from this state is a heartfelt sacrifice unto the blessed nation. This is Country of positivity? Branding at its finest!

As I journey inward into novel territories of branding, I feel the The owl, though a primarily nocturnal bird, is territorial. Though hardness that once encased my heart like clamshells crumble this sagely bird of prey defends its zone with its airborne might, it away into nothingness. Sincerely speaking, I have been able to is able to share its area as well. This is a survival lesson to emulate. become the better man because of branding (the ‘better man’ in I say share the goodness of Branding like there’s no tomorrow! the sense of the ability to take the first step in forgiving). For the As a branding practitioner who exudes positivity, the country sake of my Brand, I have been able to look past petty nitpicking ultimately absorbs all the positive goodness. when your brand and my preceding inability to forgive. After all, these are natural stands for something, it has the power to change the perception fruits of branding that are vital for optimum navigation towards of the world towards the country of origin. remember: A brand can excellence in the brands and branding circuit. redefine a nation! This organic transformation from the inside out is a pleasant ‘side effect’ of nurturing brands and championing branding. “Country Branding is a naturally occurring phenomenon. Don’t be surprised when you find The owl is a bird that can turn its head 360 degrees. It can look your Brand’s wings are sturdy enough to carry your behind with ease to spot prey and predator. but for me, as I move nation’s name to the four corners of the world.” forward, I choose to let go of my past hurts. I choose to not glance back, but look ahead. It is the way of Branding. And it is a good way.

“Focused vision ought to be used with discretion to zoom in on the positive. The ability to see all around ought to be used selectively – to spot the constructive aspects of Branding beyond and swoop in to grab it with talons of precision. This, coupled with formidable Branding wings, will grant one’s Brand unsurpassed lift to unfathomable heights in perceptive Branding. The owl indeed has many unique abilities, but it chooses to use its aptitude astutely. This is why the owl is a symbol of wisdom.”

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 43 MAIN SECTION

THE 15TH AGONG APRIL 24TH Sultan Muhammad V was officially installed as the 15th Yang di-PertuanAgong at Istana Negara for the next five years. The installation ceremony, steeped in royal Malay customs, marked the formal commencement of his tenure as the Supreme Head of the Federation which also reflects the stature of Constitutional Monarchy practised in the country.“DaulatTuanku (Long Live the King)!”.

MANCHESTER ARENA BOMBING 2017 MAY 22ND A suicide bomber detonated an improvised explosive device, packed with nuts and bolts to act as shrapnel, in the foyer area of the Manchester Arena. The attack took place after an Ariana Grande concert that was part of her 2017 Dangerous WOMEN’S MARCH JANUARY 21ST Woman Tour. Twenty-three people were killed, including the Millions of people worldwide join the Women’s March in response to attacker, and 250 were injured. the inauguration of Donald Trump as President of the United States. 420 marches were reported in the U.S. and 168 in other countries, becoming the largest single-day protest in American history and the largest worldwide HISTORY CREATED DURING protest in recent history. The worldwide protest was to advocate legislation and policies regarding human rights and other issues, including women’s KL2017 rights, immigration reform, healthcare reform, reproductive rights, the natural environment, lGbTQ rights, racial equality, freedom of religion, and AUGUST 30TH workers’ rights. Malaysia is the best sporting nation in South-East Asia, topping the medal tally at the 2017 SEA Games (KL2017) with 145 gold, 92 silver and 86 bronze medals. With a total count of 323 medals, this is Malaysia’s best-ever finish in the SINGAPORE’S FIRST FEMALE history of the seA Games. PRESIDENT SEPTEMBER 13TH HalimahYacob, a former speaker of parliament from the Muslim Malay minority,is Singapore’s first female and ethnic Malay president in 47 years PRINCE PHILIP RETIRES since the late Yusof Ishak, who governed in the mid-1960s.While some have applauded the historic moment, the election has also drawn public criticism AUGUST 2ND due to what was seen as a lack of democratic process.Yacob, who wears a Hats off to Prince Philip!After announcing his plans to retire headscarf, addressed these concerns, saying: in May, the royal, who turned 96 in June, attended his last official royal engagement at a parade to mark the finale of “I am a president for everyone, regardless of race, language, religion or the 1664 Global Challenge at Buckingham Palace. He had creed.Although there’s no election, my commitment to serve you remains completed more than 22,000 solo appearances, spanning the same.” seven decades. Prince Philip has been by the queen’s side So throughout her 65 years on the throne and she has described him as “my strength and stay.”

LAS VEGAS SHOOTING OCTOBER 1ST A gunman opened fire on a crowd of concertgoers at the route 91 Harvest music festival on the las vegas strip in Nevada, leaving 58 people dead and 546 injured. Between 10:05 and 10:15 p.m. PDT, 64-year-old Stephen Paddock of Mesquite, Nevada, fired hundreds of rifle rounds from his suite on the 32nd floor of the nearby Mandalay Bay hotel. About an hour after Paddock fired his last shot, he was found dead in his room from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. His motive is unknown.

The incident is the deadliest mass shooting committed by an individual in the United States. The shooting reignited the debate about gun laws in the U.S. with attention focused on bump fire stocks, which Paddock used to allow his semi- automatic rifles to fire at a rate similar to that of afully automatic weapon. FarthE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 45

THE TRENDING OF FIDGET THE RISE OF BULLYING CASES SPINNERS IN MALAYSIA APRIL 1ST JULY 9TH From tutorial videos and shopping options to dIY revamps and It took the shock and anger over the tragic death of T. Nhaveen for memes — the fidget spinner has taken over social media platforms.Malaysia to rekindle a much-needed discussion on the arguably some call it a fad, others, a source of fascination and many, a deeply-rooted culture of bullying in schools.Many who read the revolutionary device. believe what you may, in its basic form, the details of the assault could not fathom just how an innocent youth fidget spinner is simply a three-winged ball-bearing devicecould that have been attacked so viciously by his former school bullies rotates around the user’s fingers. The sensation is pitched as with an helmets and sticks, but was also sodomised with a foreign antidote to fidgety behaviour and even serious disorders includingobject. anxiety and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). Though 2017the internet is inundated with video tutorials on how to use them, The same goes for the fatal bullying case of Malaysian national experts believe that it acts as a distraction rather than an actual aid Defence University (UPNM) student Zulfarhan Osman Zulkarnain, he in helping users to focus. was allegedly tortured for two days on campus, before being taken to a doctor at a private clinic to have his injuries treated, and then “hidden” at an apartment nearby.Up until today, more bullying cases THE MONEY FIGHT have been making headlines and it seems that this plague is far AUGUST 26TH from cured. Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs. Conor McGregor was a professional boxing HITS OF HURRICANES match between undefeated eleven-time five-division boxing world champion Floyd Mayweather Jr. and two-division mixed martial arts AUGUST TO SEPTEMBER (MMA) world champion and at-the-time current UFC Lightweight Champion Conor McGregor. Mayweather extended his professional Hurricane Harvey was an extremely destructive Atlantic hurricane boxing undefeated streak to 50 victories and 0 defeats (50–0), which became the first major hurricane to make landfall in the surpassing the 49–0 record of Hall of Famer Rocky Marciano by United States since Wilma in 2005, ending a record 12-year span defeating McGregor by technical knockout (TKO) in the 10th round. in which no hurricanes made landfall at such an intensity in the country. In a four-day period, many areas received more than 40 inches (100 cm) of rain as the system slowly meandered over eastern GRENFELL TOWER FIRE Texas and adjacent waters, causing catastrophic flooding. With peak accumulations of 64.58 in (164.0 cm), Harvey is the wettest JUNE 14TH tropical cyclone on record in the United States. The resulting floods inundated hundreds of thousands of homes, displaced more than The Grenfell Tower fire occurred at the 24-storey Grenfell Tower 30,000 people, and prompted more than 17,000 rescues. block of public housing flats in North Kensington, Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, west london. It caused an estimated Hurricane Irma was an extremely powerful and catastrophic Cape 80 deaths and over 70 injuries but a definitive death toll is Verde-type not hurricane, the strongest observed in the Atlantic since expected before 2018. As of 27 September 2017, 68 victims had Wilma in 2005 in terms of maximum sustained winds. It was the been identified by the Metropolitan Police and Coroner. Occupantsfirst Category 5 hurricane to strike the Leeward Islands on record, of 23 of the 129 flats died but around 255 people survived. followed by Hurricane Maria only two weeks later. The storm caused catastrophic damage in barbuda, saint barthélemy, saint Martin, SoAnguilla, and the virgin Islands as a Category 5 hurricane. As of DARUL QURAN ITTIFAQIYAH october 10, the hurricane has caused at least 134 deaths: one in Anguilla, one in barbados, three in barbuda, four in the british virgin MADRASA FIRE Islands, 10 in Cuba, 11 in the French west Indies, one in Haiti, three in Puerto rico, four on the dutch side of sint Maarten, 90 in the SEPTEMBER 14TH contiguous United States, four in the U.S. Virgin Islands, and two others in unknown locations in the Caribbean. A fire occurred at the Darul Quran Ittifaqiyah madrasa in Kampung Datuk Keramat, Kuala Lumpur which resulted in 23 of the madrasa residents (comprising 21 students and two teachers) killed, while five others reportedly injured. Investigation was then conducted by police and firefighters to find the cause of fire. Initially, the firefighters thought it may be due to short circuit[11] but after a full investigation and through CCTvs outside the building, several suspects were identified to have infiltrated the area at around 3:10 am.Around seven suspects were identified by police to be involved. Al Jazeera described the incident as “the most devastating fire in Malaysia since the beginning of the year”. thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew FarNOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 47

WANNACRYRANSOMWARE US WITHDRAWS FROM ATTACKMAY 12TH UNESCO The WannaCryransomware attack was a worldwide cyberattack by the wannaCryransomwarecryptoworm, which targeted computers OCTOBER 12TH running the Microsoft windows operating system by encrypting data and demanding ransom payments in the bitcoincryptocurrency. The United States has withdrawn from Unesco over what it claims The attack began on Friday, 12 May 2017, and within a day was is the organisation’s “continuing anti-Israel bias” – a move that reported to have infected more than 230,000 computers in over 150 has just been followed by Israel itself. The US State Department countries. recently announced its intention to withdraw from the UN’s cultural, scientific and educational organisation and become a permanent observer instead.The US hopes to remain a non-member observer state, in order to contribute US opinions and expertise on issues THE RISE AND FALL OF AUNG like press freedoms and protecting world heritage, according to the 2017 Department. The decision will take effect at the end of 2018. SAN SUUKYI For years, she was the epitome of the peaceful protester, steadfast in her devotion to democracy in her homeland of Myanmar through HARVEY WEINSTEIN GOES nonviolent means.Aung san suuKyi was lauded on the global stage, awarded a nobel Peace Prize, and praised for her refusal to incite DOWN IN FLAMES violence while under house arrest for 15 years after winning a presidential election the ruling military refused to accept. OCTOBER 8TH

Now, protesters around the region are torching effigies of the Hollywood has been rocked by the mounting allegations of sexual democracy icon. They are furious at her failure to act while misconduct from film tycoon Harvey Weinstein.The New York Times Myanmar’s military lays waste to land held by the minority rohingya recently published an explosive investigation that revealed Harvey Muslims, shooting civilians and sparking a mass exodus of hundreds weinstein had been sexually harassing young actors for decades, of thousands of people who have been denied citizenship in the and settled many cases.His predatory behaviour included inviting Buddhist-dominated country.There are many petitions online calling women up to his hotel room and asking them to watch him bathe for her to be stripped of her nobel Peace Prize. naked, and to give him massages. The initial report focused on two Hollywood actors who went on the record accusing the Hollywood producer: Ashley Judd (De-Lovely, APPLE IPHONE X UNVEILED Kiss the Girls) and rose McGowan (Charmed, death Proof).since then, 30 more women (and counting) have shared their own experiences SEPTEMBER 12TH of sexual misconduct at the hands of the mogul, including two rape Ten years after the launch of the first iPhone, Apple has revealed allegations. These women include Angelina Jolie, Gwyneth Paltrow, the iPhone X.The company unveiled the anniversary edition Cara Delevingne, Kate Beckinsale and Heather Graham. smartphone, alongside an iPhone 8 and its bigger sibling, the iPhone 8 Plus, at a press event at the brand new Apple ParkThe campus once fearsome, bullying titan of the independent film industry in Cupertino. The new iPhone X kills the home button to makehas space been brought low by reports in the New York Times and the for a larger screen. It has an edge-to-edge display, glass on theNew frontYorker that exposed his very dirty laundry. The board of the and back, wireless charging that requires resting the phone movie on acompany that Weinstein built with his brother, Bob, has fired special surface, and a surgical grade stainless steel band around the him. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has revoked edges. It’s water and dust resistant. membership from the multiple-Oscar-winner. The Producers So Guild is moving to expel him. Police in London and New York are investigating him for sexual assault. Democratic politicians, like Hillary Clinton, who benefited from his largesse are condemning him. He is being treated as a pariah across the entire film industry, from international film festivals to Weinstein peers, such as former disney boss Jeffrey Katzenberg. And his wife has left him.

FarthE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 49 MAIN SECTION

RisiNg COsts He added the end of this era with Malaysia’s last race is Citing rising costs and falling ticket sales, Prime Minister also fitting, as it coincides with the end of the reign of F1 Najib Razak said on April 7, the cabinet had agreed that supremo bernie ecclestone, former chief executive of the this year’s race would be the last, as it is estimated that Formula one Group, who controls the commercial rights it costs nearly rM300 million to win the rights to F1, and to the sport. He was replaced by Chase Carey as chief the government is unable to justify the ongoing cost. executive of Formula One Group in January 2017. during its short history, sepang has never been short on drama. Known for its unpredictable humid tropical “WITH RISING COSTS over the years, with the presence of a number of other “It is somehow appropriate that the end of Ecclestone’s weather, varying from hot days to tropical rain storms, THE LAST SPIN races in the Far east, has seen the Malaysian Grand Prix reign is marked by the closing of the chapter at Sepang AND FALLING TICKET the sepang circuit has seen many exciting races. struggling to compete. without the money – and it must which had set the template for the sports for two SALES, PRIME MINISTER be said, the local fans – the Malaysian Grand Prix just decades,” added Benson. The end of an era One of them being the 2001 Malaysian Grand Prix which doesn’t make sense, at least not on a financial basis. NAJIB RAZAK SAID THE saw Michael Schumacher dancing through the flooded thE shOW Must gO ON circuit with grace. and winning it despite sliding off the for Malaysian Grand Prix Ceo of sepang International Circuit dato’ Ahmad razlan Unfortunately, without Malaysia. CABINET HAD AGREED track in the third lap. Other trivia below: BY GERALD CHUAH Ahmad razali said he would not be interested in hosting THAT THIS YEAR’S RACE Formula 1 again even if offered a free hosting deal. “It’s Who knows what the future holds and what will become • Who has won the most Malaysian Grand Prix? A LONG time ago, Malaysia had the ambition to join droves to show their support for the final Malaysian not worth the investment at the moment.” of Sepang in the next 10 or 20 years? It won’t be WOULD BE THE LAST, AS sebastian vettel is the only driver to have graced the top countries hosting international motor sport. That GP. I had the privelege of watching the race from forgotten quickly, and the purpose-built race track will step of the sepang podium four times. The German won dream became a reality in 1999, with the opening of the grandstand, as the sleek and powerful machines IT IS ESTIMATED IT COSTS Meanwhile Malaysia’s Youth and sports minister Khairy remain open to host the likes of MotoGP, and other Asia- three times in four years with Red Bull, between 2010 Sepang International Circuit (located 45km south of zoomed past one-by-one, in a demonstration of Jamaluddin explains: “I think we should stop hosting the based championships. and 2013, missing out in 2012 thanks to a collision with Kuala lumpur) which was built at a cost of rM300 power, speed and endurance. NEARLY RM300 MILLION F1 at least for a while. When we first hosted the F1, it Narain Karthikeyan. million within 14 months,. was a big deal. First in Asia outside Japan. now so many Meanwhile F1 commercial director sean bratches said it’s TO WIN THE RIGHTS TO F1, during the dramatic race, red bull racing won a venues. No first mover advantage. Not a novelty.” always sad to say goodbye to a member of the Formula • Which team has the best record at the Malaysian Grand eighteen years later, now the dream has come to 1–2 finish after Red Bull driver Max Verstappen AND THE GOVERNMENT IS 1 family. “I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the Prix? an end as the Malaysian government decided it is overtook Mercedes rival Lewis Hamilton on lap thE END Of aN ERa sepang International Circuit for their hospitality and UNABLE TO JUSTIFY THE Powered by three wins for Michael schumacher in the no longer feasible to bankroll the event, and has four, and maintained the lead right to the end to Meanwhile, bbC sport’s chief F1 writer Andrew benson professionalism over the years, and their ongoing early 2000s, Ferrari has seven race wins at Sepang, the decided to cancel the Malaysian Grand Prix after win F1’s Malaysian Grand Prix; while Ferrari champ ONGOING COST.” wrote in a commentary. “In many ways, the first commitment to motorsports.” leading team by a significant margin. 2017 due to lack of financial backing. Sebastian Vettel finished fourth after a remarkable Malaysian Grand Prix in 1999 heralded the start of a drive from back of grid. new era of F1, which blazed the trail for China, bahrain, “We will have 21 exciting events to look forward to in • What are the interesting features and layout of the Having attended the first and the last F1, it is hard Turkey, Singapore, Abu Dhabi, South Korea, Russia and the 2018 calendar with the additions of the French and track? to imagine that almost 20 years has passed, but the aBOut sEPaNg iNtERNatiONal CiRCuit Azerbaijan, German races.” The sepang circuit was designed to encourage high-octane world of F1 racing still has not really Built by German designer Hermann Tilke, the overtaking. It is very wide, containing at least four slow caught on with Malaysians. custom-built Sepang International Circuit was “However the race never attracted many fans and no Despite it all, the past 18 years has seen some magical corners following long straights. The other 10 corners are unique with a futuristic blend of stainless steel and obvious motorsport infrastructure has grown in Malaysia. moments which no Malaysian Formula one fans will medium to high-speed and top speeds of over 180 mph thE fiNal RaCE glass-fronted buildings, and an impressive double- Even if F1 may not have any significant lasting impact in ever forget. As Malaysian F1 will no longer be part of are predicted. stats: first Race: 1999, turns: 15, lap On Sunday, Oct 1, 2017, despite the cloudy weather sided main grandstand capable of seating 50,000 Malaysia, it has certainly brought more fans to sepang the F1 calendar, we wish to say: “Terima Kasih, Sepang!” Distance: 5.543 km, Number of laps: 56, Race Distance: and intermittent rain, Formula 1 fans showed up in spectators. year-in, year-out and gained a new TV audience.” 310.408 km.

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 51

RemembeRing the pRominent figuRes and famous celebRities who passed away in 2017

sultan abdul halim Mu’adzam shah Jerry lewis sultan of Kedah Abdul Halim Mu’adzam shah The comedy legend died at his las vegas died on September 11 - two months away from home on August 20, after suffering from what would have been his 90th birthday. sultan ill health for many years. The actor, singer Abdul Halim made history when he became and director will be remembered for Malaysia’s Yang di-Pertuan Agong for the films including The Nutty ProfessorRobert and hardy second time in 2012. The first time he served Cinderfella as well as his philanthropic The Harry Potter actor, who was known for playing as Agong was from 1970 to 1975. Sultan Abdul work, raising more than $2.6 billion forMinister for Magic, Cornelius Fudge, in four of Halim had ruled Kedah for 59 years. muscular dystrophy reseach with his the beloved films, died at age 91, his family annual labor day telethon. announced on Thursday, August 3. His family released a statement praising his “tremendous life” and “giant career” in theater, television and Chris Cornell Chester Bennington film over seven decades. “Gruff, elegant, twinkly As the lead singer of rock bands The Linkin Park lead vocalist and always dignified, he is celebrated by all who soundgarden and Audioslave, was found dead on July 20, the knew him and loved him, and everyone who Cornell’s natural talent helped Los Angeles coroner confirmed enjoyed his work,” the statement read. him to be a trailblazer for seattle’s to Us Weekly. He was 41. He grunge scene, though the was best known for the band’s Grammy-award winning musician hits “Numb,” “In the End” and struggled with drug and alcohol “Crawling.” His death coincided abuse throughout his career. with what would have been his Cornell, who was in the middle of late friend Chris Cornell’s 53rd a tour with soundgarden after a birthday. 13-year hiatus, was found dead of suicide by hanging at MGM Grand Detroit following the band’s mid- May performance in detroit. He left behind a wife and three kids.

John heard tom Petty The actor died at the age The rock legend died of 72 on July 21, just two at the age of 66 on days after undergoing back October 2 after suffering surgery. He was best known cardiac arrest. The for playing patriarch Peter Grammy winner was McCallister in the original best known as the lead Home Alone movies, and singer of Tom Petty was also nominated for and the Heartbreakers, a Primetime emmy in the group behind hits 1999 for his role on The including “Free Fallin’” sopranos. and “American Girl.” The band was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2002. sir Roger Moore Moore, the beloved actor best known for playing James Julia Perez Bond in the ’70s and ’80s, died tan sri adnan satem one of Indonesia’s most in switzerland in May at age Sarawak Chief Minister Tan Sri Adenan Satem popular actresses, Perez, hugh hefner 89. The star’s children broke passed away on January 11th from heart 36, died in June after a the news in a statement complications, just two weeks shy of his 73rdHugh Hefner turned silk pajamas into a work uniform, three-year battle with women into centerfolds and sexual desire into a worldwide uploaded to Twitter, noting birthday. Fondly known as Tok Nan, the popular cervical cancer. Appearing that Moore passed away politician was largely credited for bn’s landslide multimedia empire that spanned several generations of in nearly 30 films, Perez American life. The Playboy magazine publisher, founder after a “short but brave battle victory at the state polls in May last year. Adenan was also known for her with cancer.” In a statement replaced long-serving chief minister Abdul Taib and Chief Creative Officer of Playboy Enterprises died at his work in local soap operas, home of natural causes on September 27. He was 91. obtained by PEOPLE, UNICEF Mahmud on March 1, 2014. variety shows and was a officials described goodwill popular dangdut singer. ambassador Moore as one of the world’s “great champions for children. thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 53

RM80 million under the Rural Economic Financing Scheme thiRD thRust: EMPOWERiNg EDuCatiON, skills (SPED) via Bank Rakyat andBank SME will provide funding aND tRaiNiNgs, talENt DEVElOPMENt convenience to Bumiputera entrepreneurs in rural areas. rM61.6 billion is allocated to develop this sector.

RM200 million for training programmes and grants as well The budget is giving priority to improvement and maintenance as SME easy schemes under SME Corp, and nearly RM82 of schools – allocating up to rM550 million into the fund. More million for industrial development and halal products than 2000 schools are in dire condition – with leaky roofs, through various agents. damaged floors & ceilings and old equipment.

Increase funding of Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia RM200 million RM250 million for national schools, RM50 million each for soft loan for women to start their businesses in a total vernacular schools, MArA schools, boarding schools and govt of funding up to RM2.7 billion which will benefit 400kaid religious schools and RM2.5 billion for two years: RM500 borrowers. million for sekolah daif in Peninsular, and rM1 million each for Sabah and Sarawak. School students from lower income The biggest funding of rM6.5 billion will be given for the households will continue to receive rM100 aid. first time in history to farmers, rubber tappers, fishermen and small holders. Also, RM2.3 billion assistance and incentives To PTPTn loaners, the government is offering discounts in to farmers, rubber tappers as well as fishermen. PTPTN repayments until 31 December 2018. The Government is also extending repayments for future students, in which they RM140 million will be directed to development and re- need to start paying 12 months after end of study, compared to plantation programmes of palm oil. previously which is six months. For those who wish to further their study, they can create a combined loan, and pay after their For the tourism industry, World Tourism Organisation reports study ends. Malaysia is the 12th most visited country in 2016. In conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2020, the nation will fOuRth thRust: DRiViNg iNClusiVE DEVElOPMENt BUDGET 2018 host numerous exhibitions such as APEC, WCIT and CHOGM. The quality of infrastructure and interconnectivity will be eVisa regional hub will ease applications around the world, constantly modernized. especially for expats, foreign students and Malaysia My Second Home participants. RM1.1 billion is allocated for people-friendly projects such as OVERVIEW bridges, road lights, suraus and markets. For healthcare tourism rM30 million will be provided to Malaysian Healthcare Travel Council, Malaysia to be rM934 million for roads in rural areas; including rM500 promoted as Asian Hub for Fertility Treatment and Cardiology, million from Sabah and Sarawak. For electrical energy in rural BY IAN GREGORY EDWARD MASSELAMANI plus the introducing of the Flagship Medical Tourism Hospital areas, RM672 million is allocated including RM620 million for Programme, providing incentives to private hospitals in Sabah and Sarawak involving 10,000 homes. attracting health tourists. Money talks – and all else walks! When it comes to with the Theme, ‘Prospering an Inclusive economy, rM14 billion is allocated for the army, rM9 billion for the police setting the undertones of a nation, nothing quite says it balancing between worldly and Hereafter, For The rM55 million will be allocated as subsidy for train services in and more than rM900 million for the maritime force. 10,000 as a solid budget review, especially the last one before Wellbeing of Rakyat, Towards TN50 Aspirations’, careful “I HAVE INTRODUCED rural areas; from Tumpat to Gua Musang. houses will be created for public servants in the police force; the next General Election. thought has been accorded to the grassroots like special while 40,000 houses will be created for the army families. assistance for civil servants and government retirees TN50 IN LAST YEAR’S The Government will be upgrading the Penang and Langkawi In view of the cost of everything being on the rise these (RM1500 and RM700, respectively),Malaysia Children BUDGET TO CREATE International Airports and will build a new domestic airport in The Government announces 2018 as the year to Empower days, a thoughtful budgetary plan along this slippery Trust Fund ADAM50 initial savings fund (RM200), abolition Mukah; plus renovate the Kota Bharu and Sandakan Airports, Women. As such, 30 per cent of board directors in GlCs, GlICs slope can provide somewhat of a salve or breather for of toll collection at four toll plazas, reduced individual A BETTER MALAYSIA. respectively. and statutory bodies must consist of women. In the private those who are working hard for the money. True to form,income tax rate and increased disposable income sector, 60 days of maternity leave will be increased to 90 days millions of Malaysians from all walks of life quite literally(between rM300 and rM1000), increased allowance for WE HAVE CURRENTLY sECOND thRust: MOViNg tOWaRDs tN50 (as a mandatory increase). kept their ears peeled over the radio and eyes fixed likePWD and senior citizens (rM50 and rM350, respectively), RECEIVED 80,000 asPiRatiONs a hawk on the screens of all sorts of devices as the2018 special assistance for KAFA teachers, imams, takmirs & “I have introduced TN50 in last year’s budget to create a better fifth thRust: PRiORitisiNg thE WEllBEiNg Budget, tabled by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun siaks as well as for tok batins and village heads (rM1500), ASPIRATIONS INVOLVING Malaysia. We have currently received 80,000 aspirations Of Rakyat aND PROViDiNg OPPORtuNitiEs tO Razak who was niftily clad in baju Melayu in Parliament at the 1Malaysia Education Saving Scheme (SSP1M) matching 1.8 MILLION RAKYAT FROM involving 1.8 million rakyat from across the country.” gENERatE iNCOME 3.30 p.m. on 27 October 2017. grant (rM500) not forgetting three months assistance for The Government is committed to creating more jobs and paddy farmers, the PM’s claims of an ‘inclusive budget’ ACROSS THE COUNTRY.” Starting from 1 January 2018 until 2022, newborns in income generation. rM100 million is allocated for eRezeki, The first half of 2017 saw the country experiencing a 5.7 that will benefit all segments of the society – including Malaysia will be awarded with a Starting Fund of RM200 via eUsahawan and eLadang programmes under MDEC. per cent economic growth (much higher than projected the poor (B40), middle-income group (M40), rural folks Amanah saham. This new scheme is called Amanah Dana compared to March when it was 4.3 to 4.8 per cent). and public servants seems to ring true! special focus is Anak Malaysia 2050, or ADAM50. Individual income tax rate for residents will be reduced by two- 2017 saw a fiscal deficit decrease to 3 per cent (much also being given towards affordable housing, reducing point percentage for taxable income between RM20,000 to lower compared to 6.7 per cent in 2009). The Government the high cost of living, as well as the equipping of youths With RM112 billion, 14 new sports complexes across the RM70,000. This will increase the people’s disposable income expects it to decrease further in 2018 – down to 2.8 to face the Fourth Industrial Revolution. country will be established and RM20 million to improve (between rM300 to rM1000). per cent. The 3.3 million target job opportunities in facilities at the Bukit Jalil National Sports School. 2020 is presently at 69 per cent with 2.26 million job In the interest and prosperity of the rakyat, the 2018 50 shops will be made into KR1M 2.0, and expanded to 3000 opportunities already created. national export reached Budget will allocate RM280.25 billion compared with All university and Form Six students will continue to receive KR1M 2.0 shops in three years. its highest level at RM80 billion with double-digit growthRM260.8 billion in the 2017 Budget. the 1Malaysia Book Voucher worth RM250 per student – (in August). National reserves reached 101.4 billion USD. aiding up to 1.2 million students. RM400 million is allocatedrM3.9 billion is allocated for subsidies in essential goods The income per capita of the people rose from RM27,819fiRst thRust: tO ENhaNCE iNVEstMENt, for R&D in public universities, includingUM which recently including cooking gas, flour, cooking oil, electrical energy and in 2010 to RM40,713 in 2017 and is expected to risetRaDE aND iNDustRy reached top 100 universities in the world. toll. to RM42,777 in 2018. The median income growth hasPrivate sector investment is expected to reach RM260 risen from RM4585 in 2014 to RM5288 in 2016. As forbillion in 2018, in line with the Government’s aim of rM1 billion for initiatives which covers FitMalaysia, National Abolishment of toll fees in batu Tiga, shah Alam and sg. rasau, the below-40 income group, it has risen from RM2629 inmaking the private sector the main engine of Budget Sports Day, athletes training, grassroots programme and Selangor, Bukit Kayu Hitam, Kedah, and Eastern Dispersal Link 2014 up to RM3000 in 2016. 2018 growth. national football development. Expressway (EDL) in Johor, beginning 1 January 2018.

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 55 The implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) will be further improved in the 2018 Budget.

“The GST should not be politicised. In fact, it saved the economy this year, where without the rM41 billion collected, we cannot imagine how the nation can cater to the needs of the rakyat.”

The Government to allocate RM27 billion to provide quality healthcare services; RM2.5 billion for medicine and RM1.6 billion for consumables.

The Government is suggesting all PBT services to not be subjected with GST, starting 1 April or 1 October 2018 according to PBT choice. Zero GST will also be applied to reading materials such as comics, journals and publications starting 1 January.

The Government to boost house ownership with an allocation of RM2.2 billion.

sixth thRust: fORtifyiNg thE fOuRth iNDustRial REVOlutiON aND Digital ECONOMy RM517 million is allocated for flood relief programmes nationwide.

RM83.5 million to construct infrastructure of the first phase of the DFTZ in Aeropolis KlIA.

sEVENth thRust: ENhaNCiNg EffiCiENCy aND DEliVERy Of glCs aND PuBliC sERViCE Malaysia aims to achieve growth with fair distribution.

GLCs will increase their profit distribution in stages to its employees via salaries and allowances. GLCs will provide daycares in the main offices, and offering less work hours for pregnant women.

An increase of rM50 in senior citizen’s allowance (up to rM350), totalling to RM603 million (benefitting 144,000 citizens). While for jobless OKU, as well as their caretakers, allowance will be increased to RM50 monthly (benefitting 163,000 people), totalling to rM100 million.

Eighth thRust: BalaNCiNg BEtWEEN thE PaR ExCEllENCE Of WORlDly aND hEREaftER “Nobody is able to predict the future.”

Good news for public servants. Public servants who are forced to retire due to health issues will receive retirement interests – as if retiring at the required age.

Female public servants who are at least five months pregnant will be allowed to return home one hour earlier. The same exemption applies to the husband – provided the couple work in the same vicinity.

The lowest retirement rate will be increased to rM1000 per month, involving more than 50,000 public sector retirees (must have served for at least 25 years in public service to qualify).

Aside from the RM588 million allocated for monthly payments to imams, bilals, and KAFA teachers, there will also be a one-off payment of RM1500. 9800 village chiefs will also receive the one-off payment of the same amount.

To increase the lowest retirement funds of 50,000 government retirees who served at least 25 years to RM1000. And all retirees will receive special payment of RM750 – RM500 in January 2018 and the balance duringHari Raya Puasa.

“IN APPRECIATING THE PUBLIC SERVANTS FOR THEIR SERVICE, I AM ANNOUNCING A SPECIAL RM1500 ONE-OFF PAYMENT TO ALL OF THE PUBLIC SERVANTS AND RM1000 IN EARLY JANUARY 2018, THE BALANCE DURING AIDILFITRI.” thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 57 MAIN SECTION 2018 COUNTDOWN

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 59

SOCIAL MEDIA TRENDS Brands are trying in more ways than ever to connect with audiences across a range of social platforms. It is becoming harder for brands to catch our attention as EPHEMERAL CONTENT FOR BETTER competition increases and our attention spans have ENGAGEMENT RATE decreased to 8 seconds. Each day users scroll through 300 Snapchat, Instagram, and Facebook stories have led to the popularity of ephemeral content. Most ephemeral content is feet of content, giving brands a very small window of time shared for up to 24 hours and then disappears forever. Brands to grab the users’ attention. Therefore, how can your brand not only create content for their social channel but have a start building ideas that work for the speed of feed? Here separate strategy for their ephemeral content marketing. are five key trends we believe will have the biggest impact ephemeral content allows you to be more authentic and we are seeing many brands using their Instagram profile for their best, THE on your social media strategy in 2018. high-quality content and stories for more real-time content. TOP TRENDS

CHATBOTS TO FASTEN RISE OF AUGMENTED REALITY CUSTOMER SERVICE The use of Augmented reality on mobile devices provides a niche and engaging way for marketers to reach their target Chatbots are no longer the robotic, clunky machines they once were. VIDEO VIDEO VIDEO audience - it’s quick, easy and very interactive.Similarly, brands They are bots that are able to provide an instant connection with could soon project their products into the homes of social customers from all over the world - solving customer issues and In a mobile-first culture, video is the main consumption. OF media users through special filters. For example, IKEA rolled even ordering pizza. Chatbots give brands the chance to interact In 2017 90 per cent of all content shared by users on out ‘Place’ an app for users to preview furniture in their home social media is video. The biggest challenge is how you quickly with their audience in a way that feels personal. As bots before buying. This is a great way to increase conversions become smarter and more human-like you can customize your can capture your audience’s attention in the first 3 seconds. by showing customers how their products will look in the brand voice and send personalized messages directly to users. surroundings of their own home, before buying. david wilding, Head of Planning at Twitter said ‘video isn’t a strategy, it’s a tactic’. before you dive into video you need INFLUENCER MARKETING WILL a strategy behind what you’re doing. Make clear objectives CONTINUE TO TAKE OVER and don’t just use video for the sake of it. 2018 Influencer marketing is not a new thing anymore. Due to the We have seen Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram and Twitter vast majority of marketers wanting to tap into the influencer all investing in video to help generate engagement and market, there are far more challenges faced by agencies and build followers. Use these tools such as Facebook Live and YOU WOULDN’T WANT TO MISS brands. The popularity of influencer marketing has made it Instagram live to create new and exciting content. FOR YOUR BRANDING! hard to know who to trust. Consumers want authenticity from influencers, brands who seek to work with real influencers or industry experts will find a higher engagement rate.

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 61

In the era of digital art, graphic design trends can evaporate as quickly as they GRAPHIC emerged. What has been modern for the past few years may look entirely outdated in 2018. While some trends have stood the test of time, others have vanished in the DESIGN blink of an eye only to make room for new modern looks. So, if you are looking for an antonym of boring, this would be – graphic TRENDS design trends 2018. DOUBLE EXPOSURE We can say with confidence that 2018 will be the year of “double”. Double exposure has been a thing for several years THE “GLITCH” EFFECT now. despite the fact that some designers have put this The corrupted image, i.e. the glitch effect, has been one of the technique aside for a while, we definitely see a rise of double most popular trends in the digital world lately. Apparently, what exposure designs which amaze the viewer. was once annoying for the spectator has now been turned into a truly wanted effect. COLORFUL 3D SUBSTANCE obviously, horror movie fans have been familiar with this one bright colors plus a 3d composition is an absolute winning for ages. Year 2018 is the year when corrupted images take over combo for 2018. With so many graphic design trends fighting graphic design world, as well. for the leading positions in 2018, bright colors are certainly on the top of the charts. And how can they not be when all the client wants is: “Make it pop!” THE “RUINED” EFFECT As far as we can tell, contemporary graphic designers have been obsessed with the “art of destroying”. Everything that includes splashing, scratching, ripping off, breaking or any other form of ruining the aesthetics of a composition is considered modern in 2018.

“COLOR CHANNELS” EFFECTS Playing with color channels has been widely popular among designers. The technique allows designers to create great illusional effects. A holograph, a hallucination, a distorted reality… all of these are highly influential on the viewer which makes “Color channels” one of the top graphic design trends 2018.

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 63 HAPPENINGS IN 2018

GOLD COAST 2018 COMMONWEALTH GAMES 4 April 2018 - 15 April 2018

The 2018 Commonwealth Games, officially known as the XXI Commonwealth Games and commonly known as Gold Coast 2018, is an international multi-sport event for members of the Commonwealth that will be held on FIFA WORLD CUP the Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia. It will be the fifth time Australia has hosted the 2018 Commonwealth Games. 14 Jun 2018 – 15 Jul 2018

russia is the world’s largest country with a population of over 140 million. More than ESL ONE GENTING half of the population are football fans or at least follow the sport occasionally. 2018 FIFA World Cup 2018 will take place in 26 January 2018 – 28 January 2018 11 russian cities. seven of the world Cup host cities – st. Petersburg, Moscow, Kazan, ESL One Genting 2018, the first ever Malaysian Ekaterinburg, Kaliningrad, Sochi, and Dota 2 Minor, will take place from January nizhny novgorod – are among russia’s 26th to 28th in the prestigious Arena of Stars, top ten tourist destinations. On the lead- which is part of the Genting Highlands resort up to the global championship, football and feature sixteen of the world’s best Dota 2 will become a unifying idea for the whole teams as they compete for a US$400,000 prize country. Celebrations in all the host cities pool and the esl one trophy. As Malaysia’s will be attended by well-known athletes, first official Minor, 400 invaluable points are prominent politicians and famous actors. up for grabs, creating an exciting atmosphere They are all united in their love of football. for players and fans alike. WOMEN TO DRIVE IN SAUDI ARABIA 24 June 2018

saudi Arabia announced that it would allow women to drive, ending a longstanding policy that has become a global symbol of the oppression of women in the ultraconservative kingdom.

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 65

A WRINKLE IN TIME release date: March 9

based on the 1963 novel of the same name by Madeleine L’Engle, the film stars Oprah Winfrey, Reese Witherspoon, Mindy Kaling, Storm Reid, Zach Galifianakis and Chris Pine. After MOVIES learning that her astrophysicist father is being held captive on a distant planet deep in the grip of a universe-spanning evil, Meg Murry works with her highly intelligent younger brother Charles wallace, her classmate Calvin o’Keefe, and three astral travelers IN to save him. TOMB RAIDER release date: March 16

Alicia Vikander springs into action with a series of slick stunts as the heroine lara Croft on the set of Tomb raider reboot. The 2018 film tells about the first expedition of Lara Croft, in which she goes to complete her father’s research and uncover ancient secrets capable of clearing her name. The film also stars Walton Goggins, daniel wu, and dominic west.

THE NEW MUTANTS release date: April 13

The New Mutants is an upcoming American superhero-horror film based on the Marvel Comics JURASSIC WORLD: superhero team of the same name. It is intended to be the eleventh instalment in the X-Men film series. The film is being directed by Josh Boone from a screenplay by himself and Knate A FALLEN KINGDOM Lee, and stars Anya Taylor-Joy, Maisie Williams, Charlie Heaton, Henry Zaga, Blu Hunt, and Alice Release Date: June 22 Braga. In The New Mutants, a group of young mutants held in a secret facility fight to save themselves. It is a sequel to the 2015 film Jurassic World and is the fifth installment in the Jurassic Park film series. Chris Pratt, Bryce dallas Howard and b. d. wong will reprise their roles from the AVENGERS: INFINITY WAR preceding movie Jurassic World and are joined by newcomers release date: May 4 Toby Jones, rafe spall, Justice smith, daniella Pineda, Ted levine, Geraldine Chaplin and James Cromwell; additionally, Intended to be the sequel to 2012’s Marvel’s The Avengers and 2015’s Avengers: Age of Ultron, Jeff Goldblum will reprise his role as dr. Ian Malcolm from the the nineteenth film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) features an ensemble cast that original film and its 1997 sequel. includes Robert Downey Jr., Mark Ruffalo, Tom Hiddleston, Chris Evans, Chris Hemsworth, Jeremy renner, Chris Pratt, elizabeth olsen, benedict Cumberbatch, Cobiesmulders, Zoe saldana, vin diesel, dave bautista, bradley Cooper, scarlett Johansson, Paul rudd, and more. In this sequel, AQUAMAN the Avengers join forces with the Guardians of the Galaxy to confront Thanos, who is trying to Release Date: December 21 amass the Infinity Stones. Aquaman will be the second live action theatrical film featuring the titular character, following his debut in 2017’s Justice League. SCARFACE The film tells the story of Arthur Curry, the heir to the underwater Release Date: August 28 kingdom of Atlantis, who must step forward to lead his people and to be a hero to the world. An updated film version of the iconic gangster film ‘Scarface’ is set to hit theaters in August 2018. Universal, which released the 1983 remake with Al Pacino and will release the 2018 film, characterized it as ‘an explosive re-imagining.’ The film will reportedly move the action to Los MARY POPPINS RETURNS Angeles and tell the rags-to-riches gangster tale through the eyes of a Mexican immigrant. Release Date: December 25 The sequel to the 1964 film Mary Poppins. The film stars Emily INSIDIOUS: THE LAST KEY Blunt, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Ben Whishaw, Emily Mortimer, Pixie release date: January 5 davies, Joel dawson, nathanael saleh, Julie walters, Colin Firth and Meryl Streep. Set 25 years after the 1964 film, it will feature It is the fourth installment in the Insidious franchise, and the second chronologically following Mary Poppins, the former nanny of Jane and Michael Banks, re- 2015’s Insidious: Chapter 3. The film stars Lin Shaye, Leigh Whannell, Angus Sampson, Spencer visiting them after a family tragedy Locke, Kirk Acevedo and Bruce Davison. After the events in the previous film, Elise Rainier goes on to investigate the recent supernatural disturbances occurring in a family’s home in new Mexico, a house she used to live in in her youth, diving her deeper into The Further.

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 67 MAIN SECTION

Vietnam is no stranger to the world. it is located in the eastern indochina Peninsula in southeast asia, with hanoi as its capital. the country’s favorable location enables it to reach the world first-class active trade centers easier and more convenient. almost all asEaN capitals such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Bangkok (Thailand), Manila (Philippines) as well as hong kong and taiwan are within 3 hours by air from hanoi and ho Chi Minh City. having VIETNAM a tropical climate, Vietnam is well known for its magnificent scenery and colorful hill tribes, wide terraced fields in the Red River Delta and Mekong River Deltas, to majestic mountains, The risinG sTar of asia and white sandy beaches. Vietnam, is one of the should-not- miss destinations in asia. BY JUSTIN CHEW In vietnam, there is a perfect balance between its culture and its ancient architectures. Incorporating the influences of Chinese, French and American cultures, vietnam has been left with a vivid legacy evident from the different cultures found in the character of its towns, as well as in the building designs and also its cuisine. The ancient town of Hoi An, once a major trading port, still maintain its architectural influences of the Asian merchants, while the broad boulevards of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are reminiscent of the streets in France.

vietnam is one of the most populous countries in the world with the population of over 91.1 million of which 25% are located in cities while the rest are based in rural areas. Population growth rate in Vietnam is 1.18% annually. The most populous cities in vietnam are Ho Chi Minh City (8.7 million), and Hanoi (7.8 million). As a nation of 54 ethnic groups, vietnam absolutely has a colorful culture the Must Dos in Vietnam • Crawl through the Cu Chi tunnels – Crawl through the with various traditional customs and cultural identities. Astonishingly exotic and utterly compelling, vietnam is a extensive network of nearly 500 km of tunnels utilized by the vietnamese culture is much affected by its main religions country of breathtaking natural beauty with a unique heritage,Viet Cong in the war with the USA in the 1960s. such as Confucianism, Taoism, buddhism, roman Catholicism, where travel quickly becomes addictive. Here are some of the and Cao dai. A large number of ancient temples and pagodas must dos when visiting vietnam: • Visit Cuc Phuong National Park– About 120km southwest of have been in existence across the country since ancient Hanoi lies Vietnam’s first National Park, Cuc Phuong. Covering times. • admire the pagodas – vietnam’s most distinctive architecture 222 sq km, this place is home to over 2,000 species of trees can be seen in the pagodas, which can be found all over the and some truly rare wildlife including the Clouded leopard, country. Pagodas are used as shrines and temples and are delacour’s langur and owston’s Civet. treasured by the vietnamese people. • hang out in hoi an – Hoi An is one of the most popular • Wander around hanoi – vietnam’s capital handsomely destinations for tourists traveling to the country. The place combines French colonialism with Eastern influences. Enjoyis packed with historical homes and buildings and quaint an afternoon exploring the narrow streets of the old Quarter cafes. It’s small and great for walking, shopping, eating, nearby or visit the countless temples and galleries dotted around this beaches, and relaxing by the river. bustling city. don’t miss the history museum, which showcases artifacts from vietnam’s colorful history and the Ho Chi Minh • Explore ho Chi Minh City – Also known as Saigon, Ho Chi City Mausoleum. Minh City is Vietnam’s largest city and is definitely worth exploring. Like most cities in Vietnam, you’ll be met with the • Relax or find adventure in Dalat – dalat is nestled in the hills roar of motorbikes zooming through colonial streets. The Ben of the Central Highlands and is popular with tourists who want Thanh market is a must-see for amazing food and there is a to relax in the mountain air, so people flock here for serenity. great buzz of activity within the place. others go to dalat to participate in a host of adventure sports that happen within a naturally beautiful backdrop. • Hike in Halong Bay – More than 3,000 islands sit within the emerald green waters of Halong bay, one of the country’s most • Tour the Mekong Delta – The delta is a 60,000km long popular tourist destinations. Cat Ba Island has great for hiking web of interconnected waterways, which span across three and many tourists find themselves taking one of the cave tours. Vietnamese provinces. The area is filled with small craft villages, Khmer Pagodas, mangroves, orchards and the • Check out the rice terraces – outside of connections to the trademark floating markets. vietnam war, the stereotypical image of vietnam is of the many rice paddies. You can find these in the Muong Hoa Valley.

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 69

economies with high GdP growth in recent years, based on the power of FDI & the private sector.

young and energetic population vietnam has a population of 91.1 million people (13th largest in the world) and is expected to grow to 100 million in 2020 with an annual growth rate of 1.2%. Over 50% of the population is 25 years or below.

Possessing, highly skilled, young workers with an extraordinary work ethic and literacy rate of more than 90%, the Vietnamese are equipped with a high level of education and are prepared to serve in high skilled industries like information technology, pharmaceuticals and financial services, at a more competitive cost than other THE RISING STAR countries in the region. abundant resources Vietnam is considered to be one of the fastest and the global trade recession and China’s economic growth Since it began offshore oil exploration in the 1970s, Vietnam has relatively stable-growing economies in asia over the slowing down, which impacted most parts of southeast become a net exporter of crude oil, while gas and petroleum reserves, past years. the country was seen to have weathered Asia, vietnam proved to be resilient to the turbulences coal reserves, and the harnessing of hydropower electricity provide the global financial crisis well with encouraging macro-and still scored a growth rate of 6.2% in 2016. Vietnam’s “toDAY vIetnAM IS other readily available sources of power. Minerals located in vietnam economic indicators observed in 2009 and 2010. Recent economic growth prospects are forecasted to remain include iron ore, tin, copper, lead, zinc, nickel, manganese, marble, years observed the effort of the Vietnamese government positive in the forthcoming years. According to the Seen AS An eMeRgIng titanium, tungsten, bauxite, graphite, mica, silica sand, and limestone. in boosting international economic integration through EIU report, the growth rate is forecasted to accelerateMARKet belongIng In addition, Vietnam has played a significant role in the exportation its participation in many free trade agreements/ at a rate of between 6.6% and 6.8% during the period of agricultural products to the world markets as the world’s largest communities such as the World trade Organization (WtO), 2017-2018. The country’s economic growth will beto tHe WoRlD’S MoSt exporter of pepper, second largest exporter of coffee and rice, and the Eurasian Economic union, the European union, the underpinned by rising consumption, increased foreign third largest exporter of cashew nuts, among other products. ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) and the TransPacific direct investment, robust export performance, deeper DYnAMIc econoMIeS, Partnership (TPP). This led to a significantly increasing integration into global economy and improvements of oFFeRIng A vARIetY oF active global integration fDi year on year. With a stable political environment, the regulation system. Before joining WTO Vietnam had demonstrated continued efforts in low labour and operating costs, as well as promising AttRActIve bUSIneSS achieving high GDP growth, liberalizing its market and transforming economic prospects, Vietnam presents a dynamic market Today Vietnam is seen as an emerging market in one of its regulatory environment. Vietnam officially became a member of and an attractive destination for both foreign and private to the world’s most dynamic economies, offering a variety oPPoRtUnItIeS to botH ASEAN, joined the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) and became the investors to participate in the economy. of attractive business opportunities to both domestic and DoMeStIc AnD FoReIgn WTO’s 150th member on 11th January 2007. foreign investors. Here are reasons why vietnam is a good highlight of 2017 investment for investors: InveStoRS” To add new chapters to its success story, the vietnamese government For the second time in its history, vietnam is set to host is continuing to revitalize its business and investment climate. one the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit security and political environment way it is doing this is its work on three “strategic breakthroughs”: and related activities in November 2017. Focusing on In a region of the world where some countries remain putting in place market economy institutions and a legal framework; the overarching theme of “Creating New Dynamism, vulnerable to political and economic instability, vietnam building an advanced and integrated infrastructure, particularly Fostering a Shared Future”, the summit also offers has benefited from its stable government and social transport; and developing a quality workforce. These should all be vietnam an opportunity to showcase itself as a business structure, making it an ideal place for capital investment. completed by 2020. tourism and conference destination. This has prompted the government to invest in several new infrastructure strategic geographic location In the medium and long term, vietnam will continue in its efforts projects in Da Nang, which will host the final event, the located in the cradle of southeast Asia, vietnam’s to attract and efficiently use FDI inflows to advance socio-economic APeC economic leaders’ summit. strategic geographical location serves as a launching pad development. The country will target “high quality” FDI inflows, and caters to the largest population of people on earth focusing on FDI projects that use advanced and environmentally strong Economy (the combined populations of AseAn along with China, friendly technologies, and use natural resources in a sustainable way. vietnam’s real GdP achieved an average growth rate of Japan, south Korea and Chinese Taipei account for over It will also target projects with competitive products that could be 7.3% in the period of 2005-2009 before it declined to 2 billion people). part of the global production network and value chain. 5.3% in 2009 due to the global financial crisis which started in 2008. Recovery began in 2012, with GDP growth high economic growth gradually increasing and reaching 6% in 2014. Despite Vietnam remains one of the fastest-growing Asian

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 71

the “brand” of a country has a direct impact on the wealth of the nation and its ability to compete and grow in the global economy. BRAND a strong nation brand helps in differentiating a nation’s output and gives it a leg up in competing for financing, top talent and tourism. it can be leveraged by sub-brands within a nation, both public and private, to grow gDP and to help develop resiliency in a VIETNAM nation’s industries during a downturn. Vietnam is where it is today because of its successful brands which are the main drivers of its economy and attributes to what makes Vietnam a fast growing nation. to celebrate a new chapter of their success, here are some of Vietnam’s great brands:

VNPt group Vingroup vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group, commonly vingroup is vietnam’s largest real estate company and deals in a abbreviated as vnPT, is a telecommunications company, wide range of properties, including houses, shopping malls, hotels, owned by the vietnamese Government, and the national golf courses and hospitals. The company has enhanced its brand post office of Vietnam. cachet by targeting its vincom shopping malls and vincom village residential areas at affluent customers. BIDV Bank The Joint Stock Commercial Bank for Investment and Vinamilk Development of Vietnam is a large state-owned bank in Vinamilk is the largest dairy company in Vietnam. The company Vietnam. It is the country’s number one bank in net income was established in 1976 as the state-owned Southern Coffee- and the second biggest bank by assets as of 2012, behind Dairy Company. They produce and distribute condensed milk, Agribank. powdered milk, fresh milk, soya milk, yogurts, ice-cream, cheese, fruit juice, coffee and other products derived from milk. trung Nguyen Coffee Trung nguyen is the largest and domestic coffee brand VietJet within vietnam, and exports its products to more than 60 VietJet is an international low-cost airline from Vietnam. It was the countries, including major markets such as G7 countries, first privately owned new-age airline to be established in Vietnam. United States, European Union, United Kingdom, Germany, The airline became the second private airline to offer domestic China, Canada, russia, Japan, dubai and AseAn. service in Vietnam, as well as the fifth airline overall to offer civil domestic flights. PetroVietnam Petrovietnam has developed rapidly since it was established fPt group in 1977 and its activities are from oil and gas exploration FPT, former The Corporation for Financing and Promoting and production to storage, processing, transportation, Technology, is the largest information technology service company distribution and services. in Vietnam with its core business focusing on the provision of IT- related services Ct group CT Group established since 1992, has been known as the Viettel symbol of a young, dynamic and diversified community Viettel is Vietnam’s largest mobile network operator. It is a state- who made a long step toward the new century. Presently, owned enterprise wholly owned and operated by the Ministry of its key-businesses focuses on 6 attractive sectors: Real Defence and the first state-owned operator that accepted Google Estate, Hi-end Retail, Construction, Corporate Finance, Food Play payments. & Beverage - Entertainment & Education - Health Services, Plantation - Mining & Eco-Tourism.

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 Laying a firm foundation for a more hopeful tomorrow;

73 MAIN SECTION

thE WiNNERs development, production and distribution of innovative generations. now everybody can race online with the During the finals on Sept 29, there were two elimination chassis technology for road and racing applications. Mercedes AMG PETRONAS FRX17 car in the confines of rounds where the top 20 qualifiers have to battle it out for a their living room.” chance to win grandstand tickets to the Malaysian GP. Today, the company is an international player and market leader with a huge catalog of high-quality automotive “We will continue to promote this virtual racing in Malaysia In the final round, emcee Ezra Low kept it real by giving a suspension products and solutions. and around the world, where car enthusiasts can come THE FUTURE OF E-MOTORSPORTS AND powerful turn-by-turn commentary on the virtual race, as together and compete online with more virtual tracks to be the last 10 finalists raced to the finish line to compete for Also present at the awards ceremony was President and made available in the near future.” THE LEGACY OF SEPANG INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT. the grand prize. Ceo of The brandlaureate drKKJohan and Chew bee Peng, and Ceo of raceroom Malaysia sdn bhd Jason Chong. aBOut RaCEROOM ENtERtaiNMENt The game was both challenging and entertaining. All eyes RaceRoom Entertainment AG (R3E), registered in Rotkreuz, were glued on the big screen as Ayman Aqeem, Aiman thE futuRE Of eMOtORsPORts Switzerland is the leading free-to-play motorsport Haziq, and M. Ibrahim battled it out on the digital race track,during his speech, Althoff said all good things must come simulation for PC, and has access point to international in a neck-to-neck competition with long straights followed to an end. He feels sad that this years’ F1 race in sepang is race car series, as well as legendary race cars, and world- by tight and slow corners. the last after almost 20 years of great success. renowned race tracks.

Finally Ayman emerged the winner as he conquered the However, all is not lost. what better way to preserve the The entertainment company with production facilities in digital tarmac with incredibly fast corner combinations and sepang International Circuit than through raceroom Germany and sweden is the central publisher, licensor and some technical turns, followed by Aiman and Ibrahim. The virtual racing game where millions of fans around the main contractor for raceroom, and is responsible for the trio took the top 3 positions, and won grandstand tickets to world can continue to compete, long after the sepang F1 development and production of their hardware systems. the Petronas F1 Championship. race is over. raceroom entertainment sdn bhd, spearheaded by Tan sri kW autOMOtiVE “Thanks to our close relationship with Hermann Tilke, a rainer Althoff is the Malaysian subsidiary of the company, Following the announcement of the winners, there German engineer, race driver and circuit designer, who with its office and development lab located at Unit 5.06, was another event nearby -- The BrandLaureate Awardshas designed numerous F1 motor racing circuits; we were level 5, Menara lGb, no. 1, Jalan wan Kadir, Taman Tun dr. presentation to the founder of raceroom Klaus wohlfarth able to rebuild the Sepang track based on data from the Ismail, Kuala lumpur. from Germany, at Chinoz on the Park, KLCC. track architect to ensure the accuracy of the layout and surroundings -- with high quality imagery, to high-definition Watch a replay of RaceRoom’s e-motor sport challenge at wohlfarth who is the managing director and founder of sounds of the cars, complete with twists and turns, asphalt KLCC on September 29 at: https://www.youtube.com/user/ Kw Automotive GmbH won The brandlaureate business gradients and dips, and sponsors’ signboards.” raceroomracing. Entrepreneur Brand ICON Leadership Award 2017. Althoff said eMotorSports is more than just a game. “This For more information visit www.facebook.com/ Founded in 1992, with a its main factory based inis the future of racing. by gamifying and digitizing the raceroommalaysia Fichtenberg, Germany, Kw Automotive specializes in the Sepang circuit, the race track is now preserved for future BY GERALD CHUAH t was a busy month for F1 enthusiasts in Malaysia. The RaCEROOM RaCiNg most anticipated international race car event – the At KlCC, right in front of the Twin Towers, the raceroom Formula 1 in sepang, sadly came to an end on october eMotorssports competition was underway from september “WITH RACEROOM 1, 2017, after putting Malaysia on the map of the world 23 to October 1, 2017. VIRTUAL RACING GAME, over the past 18 years. I organized by raceroom entertainment sdn bhd, the MILLIONS OF FANS More than 110,000 fans came out in full force wearing racing competition was held in partnership with Petronas AROUND THE WORLD shirts bearing the insignia of their favorite teams to as the main sponsor and presenter, sepang International support the final Malaysian GP, despite the dark cloudsCircuit sdn bhd, and Kw Automotive suspension. CAN CONTINUE TO and intermittent rain to be part of the historic event. opened to the public, the eMotorsports challenge was COMPETE, LONG AFTER In the thrilling competition, 20-year-old Max Verstappen held at a makeshift outdoor arena in KLCC at the prominent THE SEPANG F1 RACE.” (red bull) emerged the champion, followed by lewis esplanade, in front of the Twin Towers. The event attracted Hamilton (Mercedes) in second placing, while daniel ardent fans and onlookers to see who can clock the fastest Ricciardo (Red Bull) took third placing. time on the state-of-the-art racing simulators equipped with wide-screen monitors, racing seats, high-tech steering MERCEDEs-aMg’s 50th aNNiVERsaRy wheels and pedal units to provide an incomparably In the mood of the occasion, the town was abuzz with realistic driving experience. activities to usher in the last F1. Mercedes-Benz organized an F1 party at a warehouse at Jalan Chan sow lin, Kuala executive Chairman Tan sri rainer Althoff said raceroom lumpur to celebrate 50 years of AMG. is a perfect platform and opportunity to bring together young talents, motorsport enthusiasts, and gamers to enjoy The dimly lit, rustic venue offered a stark contrast to a thrilling multiplayer-race against their friends, and set Mercedes latest edition sports cars, stacked in a unique the fastest lap time on the virtual racetrack. showcase with containers placed near the entrance. As the highlight of the evening, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia “eMotorSports is more than just a game. It is the future of Vice President Sales and Marketing (Passenger Cars) Mark racing, suited for Malaysian youths. now everyone can race, Raine spoke about the premium carmaker’s prospects and shed light on upcoming model launches, before unveiling “It is also a timely event in light of the last Petronas F1, as the latest Mercedes-AMG E 63 S 4MATIC. Legendary F1 a digital life-extension of the iconic Sepang International driver lewis Hamilton was also present to wow the Circuit, so we can continue to host many more Mercedes 1000-strong crowd, comprising Mercedes car owners. AMG PeTronAs Motorsport championships in the future, “ said Althoff. thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 75 MAIN SECTION

Can you tell us story behind the inception of WomenFest? It is not by coincidence, womenFest Malaysia falls on the same womenFest came to be as we realise that women in entrepreneurship month as Pink October. Our team has handpicked the date in has been evidently an important source of Malaysia’s economic conjunction with Pink October to show our support for the growth. Women entrepreneurs create new jobs for themselves andcampaign. we see womenFest as a very suitable support platform others. Year in and year out, there has been an increasing number for Pink Ribbon Wellness Foundation and LPPKN to conduct public of women entrepreneurs especially so in the fashion and beauty education and awareness programmes to educate the public industries. concerning the importance of breast health. Hence why womenFest caters specifically to women. However, we do not restrict men from WOMENFEST despite the fact, only a minority of the women entrepreneurs has participating in womenFest as we believe men should also support the financial capability to set up a physical store to showcase theirthis cause i: women empowerment and breast cancer awareness designs and products. Hence, most independent start-ups resort to campaign. merchandise their products through online platform which are cost- savvy and easily accessed. womenFest focuses on women empowerment and it will be the MALAYSIA 1st biggest Fashion, beauty and lifestyle for women in Malaysia. However, we recognise the buying behaviour of the local publics is WomenFest features indoor marketplace, fashion and beauty such that they prefer to hold products physically before purchasing. workshop and tutorials, breast cancer related talk and experience fashion. The locals are also less likely to explore a new local brand without sharing by breast cancer’s survivor, best dress contest, pampering any guarantee on the quality for the price they pay. sessions powered by Nails on Wheels, Free breast cancer check-up, BeaUTy. lucky draw station and variety selection of foodtrucks by Tapak and we aspire to further expand and support the women entrepreneurs Asian Taste. lifesTyle. by providing a platform for women entrepreneurs in the fashion and beauty industry to showcase the fusion of fashion and beauty that What is your mission in creating such platforms for women and what BY AIN MC caters for urban women in Klang valley. outcomes do you expect out of the festival? The main objective of WomenFest is to provide public recognition the biggest fashion and beauty festival for women – with the central theme ‘educating the locals of the local designers and exposure to our women entrepreneurs by increasing brand WomenFest Malaysia (WFM), is also the first ever event and Retailers’, we aspire WomenFest to be the first fashion and awareness of public visitors to the product designed and curated especially targeted for women in Malaysia. the brainchild beauty marketplace in Klang Valley by creating an avenue for the by women entrepreneurs. Most importantly, the event will raise of the creators at firm Motion sdn Bhd, a locally-based locals to explore the local brands in the market. awareness of the brands in an accessible and embracing atmosphere total solutions provider for events and design, the festival for many people who have not yet been exposed to the industry. is in collaboration with the Ministry of Women, family and Why cater specifically to ‘women’ and why is it different from any Community Development (kPWkM), Malaysia External trade other existing brand festivals? We believe WomenFest will not only boost the confidence of Development Corporation (MATRADE), and Limkokwing women, but also encourage the participation and involvement of our university of Creative technology, with event support WomenFest is targeted specifically to all women regardless of race Malaysian women in entrepreneurship. From WomenFest, we seek to from numerous big brands, namely Women’s Weekly, and religion. The festival is created to unite our women and provide prepare and expand equal opportunity to all women entrepreneurs Cosmopolitan, audi Euromobile, Nails on Wheels, and astro an opportunity for our women to let loose and have fun over the in Malaysia to increase the brand recognition and products of their Mix FM, just to name a few. weekend. very own designs. For all we know, WomenFest has the potential

WFM features a fashion, beauty and lifestyle marketplace, where women in entrepreneurship and traders showcase start-up brands focusing on the latest trends. Meanwhile, on the consumers’ end, this platform caters for urban women in the Klang valley who contribute generously to the Malaysian economic growth, to encourage exploration of the new local brands available. This event spots the latest styles in designed apparel, accessories, cosmetics and other women related products, with over 100 retail brands are expected to partake, be it local brands as well as brand participation from Indonesia and singapore.

Firm Motion, the company behind the remarkable idea of gathering women alike under one roof is actually a company under Gen-Y Youth Development Program mentored by Serba Dinamik Holdings Berhad. Serba Dinamik is a group that empowers women in the organisation to explore, discover and pursue business opportunities to create more woman entrepreneurs in the market. This program targets to nurture, develop and polish these young talented people to become succesful business owners locally and eventually to conquer the global market. Serba Dinamik is on a special mission to promote this program and envisions more youth “WoMenFeSt cAMe to be AS We ReAlISe tHAt will take the opportunities to discover their flair in business which is crucial to the economic development of the country. WoMen In entRePReneURSHIP HAS been evIDentlY we had our opportunity to learn more about the idea behind An IMPoRtAnt SoURce oF MAlAYSIA’S econoMIc womenFest and its mission and vision through the director of Firm Motion, Sofia Qaisara Chan. gRoWtH”

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 77

to provide a platform for local women entrepreneurs in women shoppers to get free medical examination as well becoming successful entrepreneurs locally and globally. as to educate both women and men (to support their love ones) of the importance of pre-detection for breast cancer in there has been a lot of issues and concerns with regards women. to women today; the lack of support and recognition, the discrimination at work – how do you think WomenFest is ableDo you think the reception towards woman entrepreneurs are to change those negative perceptions and notions? far better now as compared to a few years back? ALIA BASTAMAM we aspire for womenFest to be an avenue for women to Based on the Department of Statistics in 2013, about 19.7 one of Malaysia’s best fashion showcase their talent in every aspect such as entrepreneurship, per cent of all Malaysian small-and medium-enterprises designers and her eponymous label of creativity, innovation just to name a few. Women should be (SMEs) are owned by women. Being a woman myself, I know sensual feminine designs, the design able to do whatever they like. The fact that they are married, a how difficult is for us to be recognized to be at par with our aesthetic of Alia bastamam brings mother, a breast cancer survivor, a divorcee or a single mother male counterparts, we always have to run the extra mile in a cool, comfortable and up-to-date should not be the social stigma to stop them from rising to this male dominated world while at the same time juggling culture into the glamorous idea of shape and contribute to the Malaysia’s economy. our family and work commitments. In recent years, a good fashion. SHALS number of women entrepreneurs started their businesses Reflecting the sense of relaxed and timeless elegance of reinvented All women who aspire to do their own business deserve through online platform, with the help of their spouse, family The influx of ‘womenpreneurs’ are its classics for wardrobe essentials, sHAls range of ready to wear, to get the support and encouragement to venture into members or friends. From the support, these women managed peak right now and will continue to accessories and handbags are thoughtfully made to last beyond the entrepreneurship. We aim to promote self-improvement,to begin their business on a modest scale but armed with big grow even more and I have a lot of season bearing in mind functionality and practicality. independence and confidence by women in contributingaspirations and motivation. respect for the amazing women out to the society as a whole. we are concerned on the need there who dared to be different and I can say that the role of women entrepreneurs is highly important of increased awareness and activism surrounding women However, despite the reception towards women entrepreneurs are the driving forces of their fields. and that it is crucial for all women to support each other including women’s health issues especially the breast cancer are far better now as compared to a few years back, we are And as a designer, I am empowered collaboratively in order to keep on giving good impacts that help awareness movement. lacking of physical platform and opportunities for them to and humbled at the same time for boost Malaysia’s economy. nowadays, a lot of ‘womenpreneurs’ market their products to a wider range of market. We also taking on this role and being a part of are motivated to take a step further in becoming their own boss What are your challenges prior to making it happen for envisioned for our women entrepreneurs to be guided and making women look and feel amazing through creativity and innovations. be it housewives or lady boss of WomenFest? equipped with knowledge and right skills to help them to – when you wear something that top start-ups, women are starting to realise the importance of their We have faced various challenges prior to making it happen master the export game to carve a niche in the export market. makes you feel good, your confidence contributions on the economy. for WomenFest as it is the first festival. We noticed that the We will work closely with MATRADE in future to materialise shines through and you’ll be ready to community we are living in right now are very business this vision. take on anything! For me, sHAls’s contributions are through how the brand inspire oriented and lost touch to charity cause. despite womenFest women out there to believe in themselves and let them know that is supporting a good cause i.e women empowerment What do you expect to change or to bring for the next womenFest serves as a platform for they can achieve anything if they believe enough. When we make and breast cancer awareness, it was difficult to obtainWomenFest? the us women to connect and exchange people believe and ambitious, new entrepreneurs will bring new financial support. we hope to unite more women entrepreneurs under the roof ideas with each other and I am also ideas to the table spurring innovations and injecting competition of WomenFest Malaysia 2018. We hope to continue to uplift taking part in support of a cause that’s thus contributing to economic dynamism. we might be a small brand However, we are very honoured and pleased for the support our mission towards enhancing opportunities to women very close to my heart -WomenFest is thriving to evolve, but together with other brands and startups we of WomenFest Malaysia 2017 collaborating partners and owned businesses. we hope for the next womenFest we will collaborating with the breast Cancer can play a significant role in economic growth. So, let us all play sponsors, Ministry of women, Family and Community be able to approach entrepreneurship based agencies or welfare Agencies in Malaysia for the our role in nurturing the entrepreneurship ecosystem and make our Development, MATRADE, SerbaDinamik Holdings Berhad,organisations as well as corporate brands so that we can set Pink October campaign. contribution in building towards a prosperous society. Audi Euromobil, LimKokWing University, AIA Berhad,up a fund for women entrepreneurs who needed the extra bluIncberhad, digi Malaysia, Zalora Malaysia, Mix FM, nails funding to build or expand their business. on wheels, for believing in womenFest and its movement. They have been very supportive of womenFest from the start. For the next womenFest, we also hope we can introduce our local brands to international buyers who are sourcing What are the brands participating in the festival and how products from Malaysia so that they can look beyond the does Firm Motion come up with the choices? familiar boundaries of the domestic sales and market. KULET The brands featured in womenFest is a combination of local KULET reflects a sense of effortless and sophisticated aesthetic, designer brands that are already well-established, brands that focusing on timeless designs. The KULET GIRL is a modern day are currently thriving in the market as well as brands that are woman who appreciates subtle fashion styling, that emphasizes new and trending in the local scene. All of the participating on comfort and wearability. brands deserve to be supported regardless of their size and years of presence in the market. Hence, WomenFest is the we’ve seen an increase in women entrepreneurs in Malaysia in the umbrella for these local brands as most of them are products past few years. It has gotten a lot of support and positive attention of high quality but lack recognition. from not only consumers but from the government as well. which we believe is a greatly contributes to better buying power overall. What is something new that WomenFest can bring to not just Although we do not focus on promoting the women entrepreneur the women out there but to the whole sphere of shoppers element as part of our selling point, we believe that consumers outside when they visit the festival? are keen to support our brand and this has definitely helped our From the beginning, we wanted womenFest to be a business to grow. different festival, not just any other shopping event. We are very persistent to add value into womenFest by giving the When we first learnt of WomenFest, we loved the direction of experience for the shoppers that join the festival. We want this event. They are supporting a very great cause which we have the shoppers to come for the experience! It must be fun and always wanted to be a part of. As KULET focuses on being an relaxing hence, the pampering area and foodtruck scene. e-commerce brand, it great opportunity for us to meet our existing we ensure that there is a reason for the shoppers to stay in customers, and it will be great exposure for the brand to reach a the festival. Hence why we also provide the opportunity for wider audience. we hope through this event, we will not only have a successful sales experience, but to also create a good relationship with the organisers and fellow vendors. thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 79 MAIN SECTION

that’s yOu (lyRiCs)

1st VERsE THIS IS A SONG, IT’S MEANT FOR YOU FOR SO MANY YEARS, YOU’VE GONE AND BEEN THRU WAKE UP AND SEE FOR YOURSELF WHAT THE WORLD CAN OFFER YOU THANK YOU GOD, WE BELIEVE IN YOU

ChORus CAN YOU FEEL IT CAN YOU SEE IT YOU ARE THE BRAND DATO’ WAH IDRIS ON THE MAKING OF WINNING MEANS YOU YOU’RE NOT AFRAID OF ANYONE… ONE… ONE… ONE… CoMe on, be brAve BRANDLAUREATE’S THEME SONG. PROVE TO THE WORLD.. THAT’S WHY YOU ARE THE ONE CreATe IT, MAKe IT BY GERALD CHUAH brAnd IT To be THe besT

For many years, it has been the dream of The “The starting point is to come out with a nice melody THERE’S SOMETHING SPECIAL THAT’S YOU brandlaureate to come out with its own corporate structure that people can sing and hum to. The song WOO-OO-UH… WOO-OO-UH… WOO-OO-OO-OO-OO-UH theme song, to share its vision and mission to promote must also have a memorable and inspiring message excellence in the world through the power of brands and that people can relate to, and what better person to 2ND VERsE branding. pen the lyrics than drKKJohan, the President of The NOW IT’S THE TIME, FOR ALL OF YOU BrandLaureate himself.” SHOW TO THE WORLD, BRAND LAUREATE IS YOU After months of planning, it finally unveiled its theme PICK UP THE LADDER AND CLIMB AND MAKE YOUR DREAMS COME TRUE song for the first time in public, during the prestigious YOU ARE THE BRAND O THANK YOU GOD, FOR MAKING IT TRUE BrandLaureate ICON Leadership Awards at Majestic Hotel dato’ wah said in writing the song, he puts himself in the Kuala Lumpur on August 28, 2017. awardees shoes to reflect on what it takes to become a ChORus great brand, and `Prove to the world that You are the one,’ CAN YOU FEEL IT The song simply titled: “That’s You”, was beautifully as the lyrics say, CAN YOU SEE IT composed and performed by none other than dato’ YOU ARE THE BRAND Wah Idris, a reknown Malaysian composer, singer and “Unlike most company theme songs which are too WINNING MEANS YOU YOU’RE NOT AFRAID OF ANYONE… ONE… ONE… ONE… songwriter, famous for his signature tune `Malaysia Truly serious about their brand name and corporate identity, CoMe on, be brAve Asia,’ for Tourism Malaysia many years ago, which puts `That’s You’ talks about the people as the originator and PROVE TO THE WORLD.. THAT’S WHY YOU ARE THE ONE Malaysia on the map of the world. inspiration behind successful brands, simply because CreATe IT, MAKe IT `You are The Brand’.” brAnd IT To be THe besT (besT… besT… besT…) PosITIve resPonse during the night’s performance, dato’ wah, dressed in a It also exemplifies The BrandLaureate Awards as a CAN YOU FEEL IT maroon jacket, performed like a rock star, accompanied shining example and epitome of brands and branding CAN YOU SEE IT by a grand piano and backup singers. Recounting his success, having created a wow factor in the branding YOU ARE THE BRAND performance that night, dato’ wah said he was thrilled awards industry. WINNING MEANS YOU YOU’RE NOT AFRAID OF ANYONE… ONE… ONE… ONE… beyond words. CoMe on, be brAve POSITIVE INFLUENCE PROVE TO THE WORLD.. THAT’S WHY YOU ARE THE ONE “It was simply fantastic! I can’t find the words to describe Moving forward, dato’ wah said he plans to get the song CreATe IT, MAKe IT it. I could feel the energy in a room and I was overjoyed on the airwaves to reach a greater audience both locally brAnd IT To be THe besT with the positive response, and abroad, as he sees great potential to further promote BE STRONG, BE GREAT, BE THE ONE… THAT’S YOU The brandlaureate theme song. “I thank God that we made it, and it will certainly be a COMPOsER: DatO’ Wah iDRis night to remember for a long, long time,” as he recounted On what it takes to come out with global hits, Dato’ Wah the event. said: “Through songs, we can create the moments and the emotions. There are sad songs, fun song, and hilarious CATCHY TUNE songs, but at the end of the day being positive is the key, The catchy and upbeat song was an instant crowd puller. Unlike the usual run-of-the-mill corporate theme songs “As a song writer, I have to think about how to inspire with repetitive slogans, `That’s You’ is a more personable people because a well-written song will go a long way song as it has a down-to-earth message that everyone towards creating a lasting impact and positive impression can sing and relate to. on people’s lives,

Although dato’ wah has written countless songs during “Last but not least, I wish to thank The BrandLaureate for his 35-year music career, the veteran singer-songwriter the chance to contribute to its successful theme song. I still finds The BrandLaureate theme song both look forward for more opportunities to work together and challenging and inspiring. produce more great songs like this in the near future.”

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 81 MAIN SECTION

INSTITUT ONN JAAFAR CHAMPIONING YOUTH MOVEMENT

BY AIN MC Through their mission and vision in helping the group in Malaysians united Run 2017 the future of iOJ Institut onn Jaafar (IoJ) might be young dive deep into the inception of Institut need no matter what their race or religion, Institut onn IoJ’s most successful campaign comes in the form of a over the years, there has been a tremendous amount in their years of expertise but the onn Jaafar and how it is championing Jaafar is extending the values of the late onn Jaafar to united run or as what it is widely known as – Malaysians of support and response in the form of participation organization had definitely touched manyyouth involvement in today’s society Malaysians as a whole and it is something that IoJ strives United Run 2017 (MUR17). The MUR 2017 is a campaign from the youth. with programmes such as those made hearts. development. to keep within their line of work. that calls out to all university and college students to available under IoJ, the organization is now in the unite and run for a noble cause. forefront in championing youth’s involvement in society’s Just like the figure it was named after, an artless Platform The strong values of bringing and helping together development in Malaysia. Institut onn Jaafar had the foresight and Institut onn Jaafar was launched in the people in need without taking into account theirThe first MUR took place in 2015 in Kuala Lumpur. With vision of building a united nation made September 2014 by its patron, Dato’ Seri backgrounds can be seen through some of their previous17,620 recorded participants, it set a new Malaysian When asked on where he sees IOJ in championing such out of our diversity of races, religions, Hishammudin Hussein. The objectives and also ongoing programmes. record for “the largest participation of college students in causes in the next few years, Charles Mohan had a bright languages and cultures – exactly one of of the institute are to help the poor and a volunteerism campaign run.” vision for the organization. the values onn Jaafar had hold dearly to vulnerable people by making a difference “IOJ has organized many successful initiatives such as the his heart. in their lives whilst at the same time the Jom Bekpes campaign, which saw IOJ student-volunteers Sponsors raised RM 100,000 for five different multi- “I believe IOJ will progress very well. We are very much institute works as a mechanism to expose serve breakfast to the homeless and underprivileged ethnic charities. For 2017, the target has been set for established in the private and public universities and we with the aims to recruit, mobilise and Malaysian youths in helping the said group denizens of Kl and past campaigns also include the over 50,000 runners and funds raised will go towards walk the talk. We have proven to people that we have be an avenue for volunteers and to also of people. #MH370 Forever In Our Hearts campaign, flood reliefsupporting the education of 50 underprivileged children. been an NGO, and we behaved like an NGO. IOJ will promote the idea of volunteerism through drive and the #FIXPITAS campaign,” explains Mohan. continue to uphold these values and with that, we foresee a network that spans the entire nation, Initially, IoJ had mainly focused on the “MUR 2017 aims to celebrate the spirit of unification more universities and students will come to support our Institut onn Jaafar is now becoming the homeless and the elderly people of the Apart from that, they previously held JOM SAHUR, JOMof all Malaysians. The run resembles a microcosm of genuine intention,” leading platform showcasing inclusiveness poor and vulnerable group but after 3 rAYA and JoM dIwAlI that year with JoM CnY held Malaysia itself; as a melting pot of different cultures and “OUR VISION IS TO BECOME ONE OF of all races, religions and cultures, and years, IoJ has now become more structured earlier this year and they have come full circle with ethnicities, all coming together for a united cause, which “We would like people to feel that when they come to IOJ, THE MOST OUTSTANDING NGOS IN which that can be used for the greater and thus they are now focusing more on JOM SAHUR and JOM RAYA again. What is special aboutis to help the less fortunate children in the country,” adds it is all about giving and it is all about coming together,” good. the children that come under the category these programmes is for example: the JoM rAYA is being Mohan. he continues. MALAYSIA, SPECIFICALLY HELPING THE of poor and vulnerable people such as hosted by local non-Muslim and international students POOR AND VULNERABLE PEOPLE ON A Speaking to the frontrunner of thehomeless children, children of single from SEGi College Kuala Lumpur and IOJ Student- The proceeds gathered from the run will then be pledged In promoting a positive image of youth, IOJ is definitely non-governmental organization, Chief parents with financial difficulties and alike. Ambassadors from local private and public universities. to universities where a few cases of underprivileged the best platform to mould the mindset and attitude of MULTIRACIAL CONTEXT. DESPITE WHAT Executive Officer Mr. Charles Mohan, we students will be parked under these universities andyoung Malaysian workforce in their progress of becoming The programmes have indeed helped unfortunate students/volunteers will be able to have a hands-a better person when they go out and work. RACE OR RELIGION THEY PRACTICE, IF children to not feel left out during these what should on experience to ensure that the kids will have the THEY NEED TO BE HELPED, WE NEED TO have been a joyous celebration. IOJ is still on a continuousappropriate financial support throughout that one mission to provide these children with the experience year. HELP THEM,” that they truly deserve.

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 BRAND ANNIVERSARY 83 MAIN SECTION

MALAYSIA’S LARGEST

CABLE MANUFACTURER sCAble’s core business can be categorized into two Testing and Commissioning of power transmission 500kV; ensuring that we are dynamic enough to be the main divisions, namely Manufacturing and Projects lines and related services. first and sole producer of 275kV underground cable in & Engineering. This synergistic relationship has Malaysia. we pride ourselves with no compromise in contributed to their outstanding business repertoire over the years, sCAble has contributed greatly to the quality of our products; all of which are strictly Iso SARAWAK CABLE in terms of power cable manufacturing, fabricated the growth and development of Sarawak’s industrialaccredited and internationally recognized.” steel structures and galvanized products, transmission economy and Malaysia as a whole. As shared by Toh, BY NURILYA ANIS RAHIM line construction, civil works for substations, mini As the largest cable and wire producer in Malaysia hydropower plant construction, aerial power lines “As a leading industry player, we are constantly and South East Asia, the future is certainly looking Sarawak Cable Berhad (SCABLE) is the single largest in the finance and corporate advisory industry Diverse ever Business Divisions inspection and maintenance and various other looking for ways to increase productivity and research bright and firm for SCABLE. In light of general market and most acclaimed cable and wire producer in since beginning his professional career in 1989 when SCABLE first began as a small power cable infrastructure development. They continue to improve new technology so as to develop skilled personnel. conditions, sCAble plans to enlarge their export Malaysia and south east Asia. Their power cables and he joined Sonic Corporation, USA. In 2001, he wasmanufacturer. In May 2010 they listed in Bursa market foothold by tapping into new technologies, we participate in designing and developing the market and fortify their dominance within ASEAN and wires are synonymous with quality and reliability, appointed to the Executive Committee of Universal Malaysia and have since expanded to include increasing productivity/production capacity and power transmission lines infrastructure in the state global regions through networking and collaboration not just in the calibre of its products but also in Cableits (Sarawak) SdnBhd (UCS), SCABLE’s wholly unique, specialised subsidiaries that broaden their exploring upstream expansion opportunities. of Sarawak and Malaysia. Our direct and indirectwith regional players to make inroads to this large and establishment as a world-class cable manufacturer. owned subsidiary. It was then and there that he began business repertoire. with the successful integration contribution in ensuring constant and uninterrupted growing economy. other mid to long term plans for his journey with SCABLE. of two leading cable manufacturing entities in staying ahead supply of power at cheaper price is not just aboutbusiness growth include: sCAble has continued to gain prominence both in December 2014, SCABLE has become the largest, The sCAble brand is synonymous to excellence. Their meeting the local demands. we are expecting to attract Malaysia and overseas for its advanced technology In his capacity as sCAble’s Group Managing director, most comprehensive Power Cable Manufacturer customers have come to identify all sCAble products more foreign investment to Sarawak, creating more job • Acquisition & equity participation should and extensive range of cable products, which he strategically guides and propel the company to in South East Asia and the sole producer of 275kV and services with Quality, reliability and sustainability; opportunities and spin-off activities while boosting opportunities arise predominantly includes power cables ranging from greater heights. He is primarily responsible for the underground power cables in Malaysia. as these values are the Heart of the business. The local consumptions.” • Expansion through further upstream & downstream insulated Low Voltage up to 275kV, overhead power company’s operations and management, strategic and brand adheres to stringent regulations from various integration investment transmission conductors, underground power cables, marketing directions, as well as its business expansion. Today, the company operates with 6 power cable international bodies and place utmost importance in He further shares the branding initiatives taken to • Exploring & developing strategic global business instrumentation and control cables, optical fibre and manufacturing plants and a steel fabrication and being well-versed with dynamic industry and market promote sCAble as the leading provider of power partnership telecommunications cables, aluminium corrugated “I have always been a man of fervent ambition and galvanizing plant; strategically located in the demands. In ensuring that, they provide nothing short solutions, • Optimization of resources to attain economic of and lead sheathed cables, fire resistant flame retardantimpeccable work ethic. These are the qualities I prize north, central and southern regions of Peninsular of the best, sCAble has gained much prominence in the scale and to be compatible with global players in cables, and related power accessories. similarly in my staff and management team. with Malaysia as well as in east Malaysia. They have also power industry through sheer customer satisfaction. “Our R&D units constantly strive to improve product the region. this mutual commitment to Quality, reliability and successfully completed transmission line projects Their experienced project management and technical quality while tapping into new technologies such as spearheading the company as the Chief executive sustainability, I am proud to say that sCAble has gone worth more than RM2 billion with proven track team is highly in demand for sizeable projectsthe state-of-the-art Thermal Resistant Aluminium Officer and Group Managing Director is Mr. Aaron Tohon to receive numerous awards over the years.” records in both Peninsular and east Malaysia. involving the design, supply, delivery, Installation, Alloy Conductors steel reinforced (TACsr) for up to who has more than 20 years of working experience

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 85 ADVERTORIAL CHOW TAI FOOK PRESENTS The Bridal ColleCTions GraCinG lifelonG CoMMiTMenT & endUrinG love

BY IAN GREGORY EDWARD MASSELAMANI

a wedding day is one of transformation, bitter-sweet, 18k WhitE gOlD aND DiaMOND both sorrowful and joyful; marking the end of a BRaCElEt journey and the beginning of a new one. Model No.: U-24419

The Bridal Collection ‘True Heart’ jewellery set The 22 heart-shaped link comprised of eternal encapsulates these pure feelings with unwavering diamonds bind every sweet memory between devotion through the classic beauty of timeless sweethearts everlastingly; while the distinctive heart-shaped diamonds. tiger claw setting highlights the main stones with an undulating array of round diamonds – creating an 18k WhitE gOlD & DiaMOND NECklaCE enchanting lace to sublimely crown femininity. Model No.: U-31028 For more information, visit www.chowtaifook.com or Set with 22 gorgeous heart-shaped diamonds shop online at http://ctfeshop.com.hk. and over 1000 scintillating round diamonds, this magnificent necklace exudes epitomic craftsmanship and fluid structure – featuring a 1.5-carat centre stone. This cleverly set diamond charm is crafted to sit comfortably around the neck and accentuate the preeminent features of the bride – add blissful sparkle and grace to her movements.

18k WhitE gOlD & DiaMOND EaRRiNgs Model No.: U-33388

Masterfully set with three heart-shaped diamonds on each side, these striking earrings celebrate endless romantic love. The main stone sleekly sits within a heart of round diamonds – connecting two hearts and portraying the passionate embrace of the newlyweds. The swinging diamond fringes are designed to add an extra touch of movement and grace to the look.

18k WhitE gOlD & DiaMOND RiNg Model No.: U-24800

An architectural wonder of a ring perfectly highlighted by the meticulous setting of the centre stone, poised to entrance and steal her heart with its unrivalled exquisiteness and splendour. The dazzling diamond heart in the centre, surrounded by six glittering hearts, intensely evokes the romantic promise: “My heart is forever yours.”

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 BRAND REVIEW 87 them to handle the world and become productive well- tough training. And she never thought or Comprehensive foundational Education with Contemporary insight “IF WE DON’T EVEN balanced contributing citizens. dreamed about winning an award for The Montessori method is a complete education system that recognizes the crucial importance pursuing her passion! of a child’s first six years of development. Adele Chow, Managing Director of San Lorenzo, firmly CREATE A GOOD “When you come to this line, you need to have the believes in taking the holistic approach to teaching and learning and has given her all to evolve passion and patience. without this two, you can’t “During my preparation years, I even this approach even further in this nation and region, gaining footing not just in the urban areas, but MODEL, THEN HOW survive.” had to handle 16 kids, aged 18 SAN LORENZO outskirts as well. After all, should sound education not be accessible to all? ARE WE GOING TO months to three years old, without Thus says a genuine educator who still keeps in a helper, for two sessions a day; PresChool but pursuing this noble quest is not as easy as it sounds. GENERATE THE NEXT touch with students from her early years (who that means 32 children per day GENERATION? YOU are in college now). (starting from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. and BY IAN GREGORY EDWARD MASSELAMANI “When I returned from Singapore, 15 years ago, I was shocked at the quality of education in Malaysia.” again from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.). The HAVE TO PRODUCE For those who are keen in embracing the franchise, training is very tough!” It is a universal truth that children will never regain their ‘wonder years’ back. It would surely be the san lorenzo offers professional expertise to local best interest of parents to give good memories to their offspring by placing them in a school that can GRADUATES and regional business partners. seeing beyond the self give them a healthy balance of learning from various aspects. After all, these are the foundational THAT ARE VERY The acceptance of oneself at a tender age years and they form the plateau to build a launch pad for the life for a child. “I believe the one that will carry our brand and the one that begins with others’ acceptance of himself INDEPENDENT looks after children must be one who is really reliable.” or herself. This means that teachers must employ The foundation of a child’s life is the stepping point to brighter days ahead in every aspect for a child. AND CONFIDENT; responses and teaching approaches which build, rather than A firm base will set the young individual in the right track as he or she blossoms into a person who Dare to Care demoralize. The right attitude passes from teacher to student. will bless his or her surrounding and the people in it in a positive way. NOT ONLY IN THE one cannot really overstate children how important the ‘wonder years’ are in the life of an individual. They are impressionable souls just “Montessori helps a lot of kids with problems. We believe that within “We are dealing with people – our next generation.” ACADEMIC ASPECT.” waiting for the right impression to shape and mould them. so the right the first six years the child must have a chance. And we believe that with teaching approach and handling is more important than one might our love and patience, we can change them. And we have changed many San Lorenzo provides programmes for children aged two-and-a-half to six years old – including suppose at the onset. Considering the state of the present world, and lives – many mums have come to us pleading to take their children – Playgroups, Nursery, Kindergarten, Montessori Phonics & Reading, After-School Care as well as the susceptibility and vulnerability of young minds and hearts to all they really like sort of gave up on their children. But we believed that enrichment Courses. manner of challenges and pressure, the building of confidence these children would excel one day – and that’s our testimonial.” and good character cannot be undermined. heart of an Educator: Burden for the young The students grow in an environment that is conducive to learning, A young person has to feel accepted be able to truly shine and be the best that he or she can be. It is “If we don’t even create a good model, then how are we where their strengths are channelled towards building their weaknesses this level of acceptance that somehow defines his outlook of this world. The individual is shaped at going to generate the next generation? You have to (rather than weaknesses used against them for a crippling effect). a young age and even their perceptions, though intangible, get moulded during the tender years. so produce graduates that are very independent and the things that a child experiences during the formative years go on to imprint upon the psyche of confident; not only in the academic aspect.” “Life should be very challenging. So I love to accept cases like this. What the child, and the experiences become associated to memory so as to become either good memories people cannot do, we can do.” or bad ones. Good memories will encourage the child to venture further along the chosen path; and Adele, who actually comes from a business and contrariwise, bad memories will deter the child’s interest in something, quite naturally prompting corporate background, remembers the half- The employment of contemporary education techniques is vital to keep them to look for alternatives, or lose interest completely. a-year she spent getting a feel for the local abreast with the times. Educators need to know the latest trends. Many preschool scene when helping out a friend. she of the archaic methods of teaching may no longer be relevant in today’s not only has Adele been involved with the pioneer group in singapore to teach phonics, she is surveyed 50 preschools. she even found owners ecosystem. Changing the way parents think is the other side of the battle constantly brimming with ideas in the area of education for the young. abusing children. It was equally tough to come (an even a greater challenge than handling students at times). to terms with the hygiene levels as it was to “I discovered my passion for preschool education during my university years. I met a find teachers who were qualified, dedicated“We and can’t fully take away the traditional from the modern, so we merge friend who came back from UK. She was doing Montessori. I went to the school devoid of the ‘housewife mentality’ to work with. them together.” and I found this methodology is so excellent and so good. I never believed The right workforce is the key problem. After all, it is I would end up in this line because I never believed that I could work the people that make the brand, and in this line, thoseAnd even as the child grows, the ecosystem will continue to change with children.” people are the teachers. There was so much that Adele over the years, perhaps even more rapidly at the rate things are moving aspired to do differently. in the world today. The teaching style bestowed upon the child ought Speaking of interest, it would be the best interest of parents, to be one that will enable the child to master the skill of adaptation caregivers and teachers to keep children interested in the “It is a very rewarding career which money cannot buy.” with the times without losing the unique qualities within. It is vital for activities and programmes which will in the long run prepare the individual to stay true to himself or herself while exploring the full Adele’s own experience with children is one that is all-inclusive, potential of what he or she can be and at the same time impact the comprehensive, and to a high extent, quite close and personal. From surroundings in a good way. This is key in becoming a rounded person managing cleaning to handling separation anxiety, a lot of methodology who is well-balanced in all aspects of life. comes into play, particularly in handling a classroom of children. Kids naturally cannot sit down quietly. And it is pivotal not to raise one’s “We tell the parents that every child is different. They can use their voice, but maintain a soft (spoken) voice, imbued with all the positive,strengths to help their weaknesses.” character-building words. Her odyssey has indeed been one ridded with patience- For more information, kindly visitwww.slmontessori.com.my reinforcing

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 BRAND SPEAKS 89

Magrabi Seeing beyond vision: *brand speaks Revolutionizing the optical retail experience Created 2016 BRANDS UNDER THE INFLUENCE. ARE INFLUENCERS TRANSFORMING BRAND ATTITUDES? In October 2009, a 22-year-old university student and an audience in pursuit of genuine connections. More self-described “fashion addict” thought it might be fun consumers are tuning out of big cosmetic adverts and to start a fashion blog with a few friends to document tuning into online make-up tutorials featuring regular her sartorial passions. girls (or boys) giving facial contouring tips in the solace of their living rooms. As consumers spend greater Armed with only a personal camera and singular sense proportions of their lives in digital media, influencers of style, Chiara Ferragni launched theblondesalad. are the new “trusted friend.” ASEAN HAS BEEN com – mixing high fashion photography with “street- cred” character, and a powerful sense of relatabilityConsider to this. would you rather listen to messages ACCUSED OF BEING millennials. After a dozen more photo shoots and a few from real people or a paid advert that delays you from NOT MUCH MORE THAN months online, netizens started to buzz about her site consuming the content you want? If you are like most and brands began to pay attention. of us, then you know there is nothing more satisfying A “TALK SHOP”, A than clicking ‘SKIP AD.’ The influencer you choose, and POLITICAL FAÇADE THAT soon, theblondesalad.com attracted 600,000 unique the content they create, are what ultimately define the visitors each month, and designer giants louis vuitton, authentic voice of your brand. IS MORE INTERESTED IN Gucci, & YSL among others, would ink lucrative deals. Chiara became the face of Pantene and Amazon retail Before reassessing your marketing strategy, here are a SHOWING COOPERATION -- giving these brands the aura and access to fashion- few tips regarding how to thrive in an influencer-driven THAN ACTUALLY forward tastemakers. social media milieu. COOPERATING Her Instagram now has an audience of 10.3M followers, 1. Co-create. ON ANYTHING Luxury in generating 100,000 and above ‘likes’ per post. In the Brand experts who insist in creating bespoke content latest New York Fashion Week, Maserati sponsored with the hope of becoming viral, often fail miserably. DEMONSTRABLY Ferragni’s trip in exchange for some social media The reality is creativity flourishes in social media, and it posts. For comparison, Maserati’s Instagram page has is not a currency that any media or advertising agency EFFECTIVE. 5.5M followers. Remarkable, but still substandard to owns. Instead of competing with influencers, learn to THOMAS SUTTON E-Commerce. Ferragni’s social media rank. collaborate. Co-creation allows brands to capitalise on IS COUNTRY DIRECTOR OF an influencer’s established appeal. LANDOR, INDONESIA Chiara represents influence in the social media age where genuine authenticity and stylistic integrity subaru partnered with Instagram star Zach King.He Influencers build trust with their followers through overcome the traditional magnetism of brand then became known for digitally editing videos to every post and action. Authenticity is their most valuable iconography. appear like magic tricks were transpiring. Leveraging Time to say yes. footprint. building sustainable relationships require Zach’s distinct style, Subaru’s sponsored post sparked companies to let go of the type of dictatorship that THE ‘CROWDCULTURE’ SENSATION positive social conversations. It reached 7.4M likes and restricts them from being seen as genuine. sponsored Chiara Ferrgani is not a rare breed. she belongs to generated 6,700 comments. content must never feel contrived. what douglas Hoult calls, in his Harvard business review article, ‘crowdcultures’. According to Hoult, 2. Find influencers that share your DNA. ‘crowdcultures’ have dramatically changed the rules Influencers meticulously curate authentic identities, In 2016, L’Oréal’s #BeautySquad campaign struggled Landor creates Agile brands that help organisations with resistance from their senior management. These of branding. before social media, branded content aesthetics, and narratives to attract brand partnerships. executives viewed the approach of empowering prosper in today’s hyper-competitive, fast moving was king. Experts became convinced that “Hollywood-Tempting as it looks, the thoughtful selection process influencers to review competitive products and critique standard creative at internet speed” would generatemust remain imperative. The right Influencers who and rapidly evolving marketplace. high engagement around their brands. share your brand dnA can generate content that is the brand’s products as too risky. Nevertheless, liberating brand managers from excessive control and allowing both relevant to your community as well as being cost- influencers to preserve their authenticityproved to be For information, please contact [email protected] It is tough to disagree. Jean-Claude Van Damme’s epic effective. split stunt for volvo was worth watching at least ten a successful formula. L’Oréal reported a whopping 51% Landor.com increase in product sales since the campaign launch. times. However, a look at Youtube’s most-subscribed-to Travel photographer and sperry enthusiast, slava channels shows that the coveted top 2 spots belonged Daniliuk began tagging @sperry in his Instagram posts to names you have probably never heard of – Pew die while showcasing the brand’s footwear throughout No doubt, the advent of influencers disrupted the way brands engage with vibrant online communities. Pie (Swedish-based video game reviewer and vlogger) his expeditions. Acknowledging his talent, brand fit, The more these audiences move about seamlessly in and HolaSoyGerman (Chile-based musician, singer, and appetite to collaborate, sperry embraced him as multiple platforms and consume infinite contents, the songwriter, and comedian). None of the top 20 included part of its brand community who produces contents more essential it becomes to adopt an agile approach. any corporate brands. gratuitously in exchange for photo credits and shout- outs. Chiara Ferragni reshaped high fashion from esoteric In a virtual world, authenticity is the only real thing. to accessible. Her formula inspired the birth of other Social media becomes the influencers’ platform to reach3. Viva democracy. thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 BRAND EXPERT 91 BRAND EXPERT

BRAND EXPERT QUESTIONS EUGENE SEAH 10 WITH Joey Alexander ASIA’S LEADING PERSONAL BRANDING EXPERT Joey Alexander might be the most accomplished 13-year-old in the world.Since arriving in the United States from Bali, Indonesia, Alexander has soared, with multiple Grammy nominations, prime-time television appearances, and a touring schedule Eugene seah is one of asia’s most authentic and inspiring This is the weakest element in most Asian personal brands. Also, generally we prefer people who are interested in us, that would be challenging for veterans three times his age.The Grammy-nominated coaches. in this interview, he gives us tips on how to be Culturally, we hesitate to share too openly about our compared to people who are merely interesting. bearing prodigy who played for Obama at the White House is the one kid you should look out authentic and genuine in your personal branding journey. vulnerabilities and struggles. And this choice will impede this in mind, we shouldn’t go on and on about our sob Can you tell us more about yourself and what you are our brand value. Looking at a lot of top personal brands stories, and instead we should listen actively and ask the for. Check out his answers in our Top 10! doing? from the west, they all share openly their struggles and right questions, and be genuinely concerned about others. Eugene: I like to think of myself as a dream chaser and how they overcame. when the time is appropriate, we share a bit of our dream maker. My passion is to help others achieve their authentic stories so that our audience knows that we have dreams and fulfill their destiny. More specifically, I specialise some examples include orprah, JK rowling, warren buffett, been through what they have been through, and thus they What do you remember about growing-up a world Who are some other piano players whose touch and how do you approach playing songs that many in personal branding, leadership and legacy planning for richard branson, Michael Jordan. Humans are emotional start to trust us more. away from New York City, where you live now? sound at the piano also affected you? musicians find difficult? my training and coaching. creatures, and in order to connect emotionally with our Well,1 I loved the beach. I also heard all kinds of music 4 Well,7 I found playing “Giant Steps” and “Countdown” stakeholders (most likely human), we will need to share our What are the 3 tips you would give to young people who there; traditional music, and some jazz too. I went to There are a lot. You look at Thelonious Monk when he very challenging. But I think I always try to focus on the What is personal branding to you? personal stories of hardship and triumph.You can find out think that they do not have “substance” due to a young age? hear jazz and I jammed with the local musicians. It plays a ballad. not a lot of people can play a ballad feeling of the song, as well as the harmonies. I try to Eugene: Personal branding is essentially a long-lasting more about the 3s on www.eugeneseah.com Would you still advise them to do personal branding? was a different vibe, but I loved it during that time. like him with such power. When I first heard him play just be “one” with the song and explore it. And of course, positive reputation, achieved through several core Eugene:There are 3 key components of Substance, namely a ballad, I thought, “Is this really a ballad?” Because he you’ve got to feel that groove too. every time I play with elements. you once said that the “core” of personal branding is trust. Attitude, Skills and Knowledge. Among these 3, it is likely You’ve spoken in the past about music being a big makes it alive. I think that’s the most important thing. my band, I try to feel that and have an interaction. For Can you elaborate on why this is so? that young people have less knowledge than their older part of your upbringing, with it percolating through Just because you are playing a ballad doesn’t mean sure I know the risks, because songs like these are hard You are well-known for your 3S” framework in personaleugene: strip away all the s’s of brand, and you get to the counterparts.However, the young people can also make the your2 house by way of classic records that your father you always have to make it sad. to play because of the amount of patience you need. branding.Can you tell us more about it? core. effort to read more books, or practise their skills, or at the played. What kinds of things were you listening when Eugene: Thanks Wanwei, there are 3 core elements that very least adopt a positive attitude (which is not affected you first got into jazz? When you started getting serious about pursuing a Your first album My Favorite Things was nominated for boost our personal brand. Coincidentally all 3 elements – TRUST. Do you trust the brand when it says it will do by age). I remember my dad played me louis Armstrong. He career in jazz, did you have a daily practice routine two8 grammy awards when you were only twelve years start with the letter s. something for you? do you trust in a person’s character and was one of the early jazz musicians that I heard. that5 you followed? old. What did all of that early success teach you? competencies? If he has a good character but incompetent Young people definitely need personal branding, and can Also during that time, I listened to Duke Ellington, Yes, my dad and I had materials that I practiced. Well, again I’m so thankful to God to have opportunities suBstaNCE in his field, his brand will be affected – you will not compensate their relative lack of knowledge with a great Thelonious Monk, and even singers like Billie Holiday I don’t practice eight hours a day. I practice two or and to be able to prove myself as a musician and show This is by far the MosT important part of personal brand. engage him, or you might pay him less. If he has strong attitude and better skills. If they read voraciously, their and ella Fitzgerald. I also listened to the great piano three hours a day. I had some musicians (back home) people what I can do. Just have these opportunities— when we call someone a man or woman of substance, competencies but lacking integrity, his brand will definitely knowledge can also far supercede someone else who’s player Harry Connick Jr. I listened to his early records, that taught me how to play the music. but mostly, I to play at the newport Jazz Festival twice, being at the we usually mean that they have impeccable character be destroyed. older.Aside from actual substance, young people can also and I loved his trio, too, with ben wolfe and shannon did jam sessions and I had some teachers that taught Grammys, performing at the white House with wayne and unshakable values. Some may also refer to their employ strategies to improve others’ PerCePTIon of their Powell. Then I listened to Miles davis, John Coltrane, me basic chords. But it’s not just that. When I practice, shorter and esperanza spalding, and to play with outstanding skills and deep knowledge of their field. recent examples include Tiger woods, lance Armstrong substance.This can be done by being interviewed on blogs Clifford brown, and I can’t forget Mr. wayne shorter, especially now, I always try to work on how to be amazing musicians like the great Jeff “Tain” Watts, Willie whatever strength you have, are you among the top in your and some religious leaders. Some political leaders lack (eg THIS!), authoring a book, appearing on a radio show, whose music I love very much. free. How I can have the freedom so that every time I Jones III, and larry Grenadier is really a blessing for me. industry? The best chef? best architect? best trainer? If not, character And competencies, so it is totally senseless to giving out a professionally designed namecards. perform, I have that feeling onstage, and I’m able to then what can you do to continue honing your skills? say they have a strong personal brand. By six years old, you taught yourself how to play have a conversation with my friends. You’re back with a truly impressive set of music on your What is the one thing about personal branding you wish piano on an electric keyboard that your father bought new album Countdown. What was the most important stylE Don’t mistake fame and infamy with a strong brand. more people can know? you.3 What kind of pieces did you play on it? One of your biggest supporters and champions has thing9 for you about recording the follow-up to your last This is not as important as substance, but when done well, eugene: All of us already have a personal brand whether Jazz, of course. we also listened to gospel music, so I been trumpeter Wynton Marsalis. Can you talk about album? it can help us to be differentiated in a crowded market.This – Authenticity is definitely linked to trust. How can you want it or not. Mention your name, and others are likely would play some gospel songs, too. I went to church, what6 his support has meant to you, and what you I explore more, musically. And I have my own is akin to the design of a car or bag. A stylish car or bag fetch one assure that people view them as “authentic”? For to trust you more or trust you less, depending on your and when we were in bali, my dad also played guitar have learned from him? compositions and, of course, I have amazing musicians a much higher price than a mediocre or poorly-designed sometimes, even with the best intentions, communication reputation and track record. Since you already have a brand, in church and I would watch him play. when I played I’m so thankful to have him in my life. He was the like Chris Potter on soprano saxophone on Herbie one. I would like to emphasise that I’m not referring to our may go awry!Authenticity is similar to sugar and salt. The then why allow others to control it? Why not take over the that keyboard, I just felt the keys and fell in love with one that believed in me and brought my family and Hancock’s “Maiden Voyage,” which is one of my favorite looks per se. ratio is important for the taste of the food to be perfect. control panel? why not consciously employ strategies to it. even if it wasn’t a grand piano, it got me interested I to the U.S. I don’t really get music “lessons” from songs to play. I also have people that were on my first Put too little and the food tastes bland. Put too much and protect and grow your brand? in piano, the more I played it and learned. when I was him, but I think the most important thing is that he album, like Ulysses Owens, Jr. and this young, very drawing steve Jobs as an example, he is not particularly it becomes inedible or unhealthy. Asians generally don’t seven, my parents got me an upright piano. It was big always encourages me to keep playing this music. talented bass player that tours with me named dan good looking in his older years, and always wears his share too much, so it will be a good discipline to stretch The one thing I wish more people can know is that we enough at that time for me! what I love about the Also just playing with him is like school for me, and Chmielinski. boring black turtle neck and blue jeans. Yet you cannot ourselves a bit by sharing more. should pro-actively manage our personal brand, instead of piano is the range of keys, and the sound. You can go he encourages me to do my own thing. Through that, deny that he has “style” – as defined by the way he speaks leaving it to others. anywhere on it. You can play melody and rhythm at I learn how to be myself and to have my own sound. When you’re coming up with an arrangement for a song, and carries himself. For example, I’ve been sharing about my retrenchment and the same time. That, for me, is what’s special about That’s what I’m trying to get every time I practice: do you write it out? Or is it mostly by ear? struggles on Facebook and in my videos. However, there are source: www.ikiguide.com the instrument. How to have my own voice. Mostly10 by ear. My friend will write it for me. I can write, How do you want others to describe you? Humorous?Auth many many aspects I have not yet shared, as I don’t think the but I don’t think I’m very good at it. entic?Approachable? Inspiring? Then let that be your style. audience is ready. If I share too much, it becomes a drag on stORy the emotions instead of being uplifting and inspirational.

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 BRAND TECH 93

fREECuBE The world’s First Modular Tech Command Centre. US $99

It’s the best way to organize your mobile KEEPING UP WITH lifestyle at home or the office. Just like building blocks, by using a modular system; you can save space, money, and ensure your Freecube will always be updated with the TeChnoloGy latest technology. Freecube’s stackable modular design gives you the ultimate flexibility to power whichever features you want. each individual module snaps together EVERY YEAR, THE MOST POPULAR BRANDS ARE SADDLED WITH with secure magnetic connectors to form a RELEASING THEIR FLAGSHIP DEVICES, WHICH GET PEOPLE robust universal hub for all your devices. when you want a new module, just add it to the TALKING. THEN, THE QUESTION “WHICH SHOULD I BUY” IS stack. CONSTANTLY NAGGING AT THE BACK OF YOUR MIND. BUT WE ARE HERE TO MAKE IT EASY FOR YOU. HERE ARE OUR PICKS OF THE HOTTEST, COOLEST AND MOST SIZZLING GIZMO NOW! WiRal litE PiMax 8k The Easy Cable Cam, For Impossible Film Shots. US $199 The World’s First 8K VR Headset. US $799 A cable camera system, wiral lite is the perfect camera Pimax 8K is a cutting edge virtual reality device designed for VR futurists. It allows accessory to capture unique angles, giving your film that users to experience vr with Peripheral vision while solving the problem of screen cinematic look! The system fits in a backpack, sets up in door effect and motion sickness. It has been built to support the mainstream content three minutes, and accommodates a number of different currently available in the market, including Steam VR, while offering the largest field- lightweight cameras, including GoPros and smartphones. The of-view (FOV) of 200° and the highest resolution (2*3840x2160) on any VR headset system allows filmmakers to adjust speed from 0.006 mph on the market with less than 15ms latency. up to 28 mph, shooting for up to three hours on the built-in battery. EssENtial PhONE Beauty meets brawn. US $499

From a design standpoint, Essential’s PH-1 is a bold first move. It offers a stock Android experience and looks like no other device out there. It has a unique way to connect modular accessories, starting with a 360-degree camera. It has a bold take on how to make a big, edge-to-edge screen paired with top-flight materials such as ceramic and titanium and it has a dual camera system that is meant to compete with other flagship devices without adding any thickness to the phone.

uNiCO sMaRtBRush The fastest patended toothbrush ever made. US $116

Transform the way you clean your teeth with the Unico Smartbrush Oral Hygiene Device. Unico EOZ aiR cleans all exposed tooth surfaces simultaneously World’s Most Advanced True Wireless Earphones US $79 and dramatically reduces the time it takes to clean your teeth. With a total duration of just three The eoZ Air offers a Passive noise Isolation so you can better focus on your favorite music. seconds, this effective cleansing device performs Thanks to the CVC (Clear Voice Capture) technology, it intelligently filters the noise and circular movements automatically and flawlessly. deliver exceptionally clear voice during your phone calls. The EOZ Air provides a top-shelf Likewise, the mouth unit features ergonomic and sound experience characterised by powerful bass, and super clear and crispy mid-highs. The wide brushes that reach interstices between teeth. 8mm electro-dynamic drivers, combined with the latest aptX® technology, deliver a fine In addition, it does not damage your tooth enamel tuned High resolution Audio for a natural sound signature. or gums. Unico even injects the right amount of toothpaste directly on the teeth!

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 BRAND ADVERTORIAL 95

M VERtiCa, ChERas M vertica is an integrated development that includes retail shops and residential suites indicatively priced from rM450,000 or approximately rM530 per sq ft.

Situated only 800m from the Sunway Velocity Mall, M Vertica with a total of 11.25acres land has an estimated gross development value (GDV) of RM2.2billion. The residential suites with indicative built ups from 850sqft is suitable for first-time home buyers, working professionals, young families and home upgraders who are looking to live in the vicinity of the city centre.

M vertica sales Gallery is located next to the site, so potential buyers can have a clear idea of the locality of the development. The sales gallery has 2 fully furnished show units ready for viewing from 10am to 6pm daily.

The show units feature a 850sqft residential unit with 3 bedrooms and a 1,000sqft residential unit with 4 bedrooms. buyers can also visualise the completed integrated development of M vertica with the available scale model at the sales gallery.

Mah sing’s Group Managing director, Tan sri dato’ sri leong Hoy Kum said, “M Vertica has very good accessibility as it is near various public transport infrastructure. The Maluri MrT and lrT MAH SING interchange is only 600m or 7 minutes’ walk and Taman Pertama MRT Station is only 800m or 10 minutes’ walk from M Vertica. It is also easily accessible via JalanCheras and is only 300m away reinvenTinG from the Besraya Highway. Good accessibility will definitely affordaBiliTy enhance the lives of our buyers.” with MrT line 1 currently in operation, sunway velocity Mall, My TOWN Shopping Centre and IKEA Cheras are all within walking distance from Cochrane station which is only one stop away from Mah Sing Group Berhad is a well-known property Maluri MrT station (600m from M vertica). brand that has been in the industry for more than 23 years. As the industry expert, the Group constantly Projects developed near to MRT stations are expected to do work towards developing projects that meet the well with higher rental and better capital appreciation. similar market demands. All of the Group’s products are projects in the Cheras area are generally well taken up and carefully designed to maximise the usage of are currently fetching a rental of rM1,300 and above. As such, space with practical layouts to enhance the living the Group’s proposed development which is situated in close experience of homeowners. proximity with Maluri MrT and lrT Interchange as well as Taman Pertama MRT Station will potentially be able to benefit from the Coupled with the Group’s strategic choice of location appreciation of property value. and excellent track record, Mah Sing remains as one of property buyer’s most trusted brand. M vertica will also feature a fantastic Kl view with a clubhouse, filled with ample facilities which include swimming pool, gym, This year, the Group is focused on expanding its landscape area and more for the resident’s convenience and landbank in Klang Valley to 75% from the current enjoyment. 67%. With a healthy balance sheet, the Group is continuously looking for good land banking, joint Within 5km, residents can access Prince Court Medical Center, venture and investment opportunities. Pantai Hospital Ampang, Hospital University Kebangsaan Malaysia, sMK PerempuanPudu, sK Convent Jalan Peel, sMK seri The Group will also continue to develop accessible, bintang selatan, namKheung Chinese national school, royal well-planned developments priced below selangor Golf Club, Aeon big Peel road, Aeon Maluri, viva Home rM500,000. reinventing affordability, the Group do and more. not only offer accessible entry prices for its projects, but also luxurious facilities, strategic location and M Vertica is also easily accessible via major thoroughfares and convenient connectivity. expressways including Jalan Loke Yew, JalanPudu, JalanTun Razak, SMART, KL-Seremban Highway, Besraya Eastern Extension Expressway (Besraya), New Pantai Expressway (NPE) and Maju expressway (MeX).

Upcoming major developments such as Bandar Malaysia, Tun Razak Exchange and Merdeka PNB118 will boost the growth of population and community as well as of the area in the future are just within 8km from M Vertica.

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 97

M Vista@sOuthBay, PENaNg M Vista is a 2.02-acre freehold residential development and has a Gross development value (Gdv) of rM134million with indicative starting price of RM345,800. This project is in line with the Group’s focus in developing more accessible, well- planned homes priced below rM500,000. M CENtuRa, sENtul M Centura, fronting the Jalan sentul Pasar aims to be the new and hip The development consists of one 23-storey tower with a development to cater to all walks of life. This development spans a total of 237 residential units. Senior Chief Operating Officer, total of 8.9 acres with a total gross development value (GDV) of RM1.3 Seth Lim said that, “M Vista is a very good buy for first-time billion. The first block is targeted to be launched in Q4 2017. homebuyers and young families as it offers a very affordable price for its convenient address. staying true to our strategy M Centura is a 100% freehold residential development indicatively ‘luxury Made Affordable’ we designed M vista to offer ample net priced from RM328,000 or approximately RM505 per sqft with facilities with a touch of luxury for the enjoyment of our indicative built ups starting from 650sqft to 1000sqft. registration of customers.” interest has started on www.mcentura.com.myand has garnered more than 5,000 interested registrants prior to the opening of the sales Interested buyers can visit Mah sing’s sales Gallery in gallery. southbay, batuMaung for more information. The sales gallery is located within the township itself, so buyers can have an Interested buyers can visit M Centura’s sales Gallery located at Maxim idea on the locality of the development. Citylights, merely 350m from the actual development site. The sales gallery has 2 fully furnished show units ready for viewing from 10am M Vista has a total of 5 types of built ups to fit the needs to 9pm daily. The show units feature a 650 sqft residential unit with of different homebuyers. There is a 536sqft studio unit 2 bedrooms and an 854 sqft residential unit with 3 bedrooms. Buyers and 841sqft unit with 2+1 bedroom suitable for working can also visualise the completed integrated development of M Centura professionals and young married couples. with the scale model at the sales gallery. Young families can opt for bigger units of 973sqft and M Centura has very good accessibility as it is near various public 1,022sqft units with 3 bedroom as well as 1,201sqft unit transport infrastructure. The SentulTimur LRT Station is 2.4km away with 3+1 bedroom. and the Sentul LRT Station is 3.5km away. There are also 3 KTM stations stations which are the sentul, Kampungbatu and batuKentonmen Strategically located only 1km from Penang’s second bridge around 2.5-3.5km away. Good accessibility will definitely enhance the and 9km to Penang’s 1st bridge, M Vista can easily access to lives of homebuyers. various parts of the mainland. various shopping malls, hotels, banks, schools and entertainment centres are only within The development also offers buyers the comforts of a home as well as 10km while Penang airport is only 7km away. the convenience of being in a prime location in the city (5km to city centre), giving buyers the best of metro living and urban experiences. Mah sing’s southbaytownship located at batuMaung is set to M Centura comes with an exciting menu of modern and luxury be another booming location in Penang island with nearby For the convenience of its residents, M vista features conveniences without the hefty price tag. upcoming developments such as IKEA, University of Hull and various facilities at its carpark podium as well as at KDU College at BatuKawan. selected floors within its residential tower. M Centura features a grand lobby with double volume ceiling to greet and bid the residents a good day. The building will be highly secured Level 16 and 15 will be housing Sky Garden and Sky with a 3-tiered security systems. It is also a 100% residential property Lounge respectively. Residents can enjoy a relaxing time ensuring exclusivity, privacy and security. direct shuttle services will while enjoying the majestic city views of the Penang also be provided, giving residents access to the pick-up and drop off island. points at the lrT and upcoming MrT stations. At the podium level, there are various relaxation areas It provides a total of 1-acre of resort facilities. Its well-designed such as Healing Garden, Zen Reflexology, Secret Garden facilities includes an Olympic-length swimming pool, wading pool, and Courtyard lounge complete with comfortable seating laundry bar, childcare area and more for the convenience of the buyers. area. One of the highlighted features would be the dual floating gym, where residents get to enjoy the beautiful view of the facilities deck while Adding on to the facilities of the development, seth working out. Lim said, “M Vista is designed to be a family-oriented development. In fact, we will also be preparing a colourful The development has embraced green living with vertical planting and children’s area with indoor play area and reading corner tree preservation, rainwater harvesting system, electric vehicle (ev) for children’s enjoyment.” charging stations for hybrid and electric cars andintegrated garbage disposal system. Families can also enjoy bonding sessions at the pool area and barbeque area. There will be a Herbarium outdoor This contemporary residential development is a perfect mix for comfort dining area nearby with edible herbs available for use and luxury. Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Leong Hoy Kum said, “M Centura integrates while residents are barbeque-ing. modern luxury living, and facilities into the prime location that places you within easy reach of all the best things that Kuala lumpur city For those who are more active, sporting activities can be has to offer.” conducted at the fitness garden gym, yoga deck or indoor gym area.

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 99 Global

CuisineINDIAN CUISINE SPICING UP THE WORLD

Indian food is lauded for its curries, mouth-burning spices and cuisine, with them stating their favourite fare. when singer complex flavor pairings. With its use of cardamom, cayenne, Katy Perry was in the country two years ago to perform at tamarind and other pungent ingredients, the resulting taste the T20 opening ceremony in Chennai, she had insisted that combinations are unlike anything found elsewhere around she wanted to try out all the staple kebabs and curries, since the world. Indian food over the decades has travelled far and she had grown fond of them during her previous visit to the wide, and is available at most international destinations. country, when she was staying in Rajasthan.

spicin’ it up Today, traditional dishes that are as commonplace to Indians The cuisine of India is wildly different depending on which as fish and chips to the Brits or croque monsieur to the French state you visit – and the street food scene is no different. A are not only offered by street-food vendors around the world, visit to Mumbai isn’t complete without sampling vada pav: a but also served in fine-dining restaurants – sometimes in their well-loved fried potato patty served in a bun with a variety of original form, sometimes reinvented – creating something condiments. For those in Kolkata, the egg roll is a staple part that’s a world away from the original. Indian cuisine, adapted of the diet, made by wrapping a fried egg inside a paratha and to local sensibilities, is slowly but surely moving into the fine serving with a chutney or dipping sauce. There’s also the jhaal dining showgrounds of the west, where French and Italian muri: a popular puffed rice and vegetable snack, with a similar dishes rule. If anything, this is a time where Indian food is version known as bhelpuri found on Mumbai’s beaches. In gaining momentum, with many international chefs trying Punjab, in northern India, you’ll often see stalls serving chole to reinvent popular dishes and give them a makeover to bhature: a spicy chickpea curry mopped up with puffed, deep- cater to a wider audience of gourmands. Purists may say fried flat breads. such experimentation besmirches the essence of Indian dishes, but their starch-collared attitude would leave Indian Indian spices have seen an increased demand by world cuisine a fringe player forever. Almost all Michelin star Indian markets. While earlier it was just curry powder or a few ready- restaurants, on both sides of the Atlantic, have realised this. to-use spice mixes, whole Indian spices have now not just made their way to the spice markets but also into the kitchens the spread of indian street food of fine-dining restaurants that don’t serve just Indian cuisine. In both London and Leeds, Rola Wala (literally “the man who And in recent times, you won’t be surprised, to find signature rolls”) serves naan rolls filled with combinations from the Indian spice marts. Spices like ajwain, dalchini, cloves, black veggie beetroot channa dal to the meaty Bengali-spiced beef. cardamom, star anise, dhania and tamarind seeds are among Hop along the channel to Paris (bearing in mind that Indian the more popular. Indian spices have captured the popular food has taken a while to get going in France) and you’ll imagination by featuring in films like Mistress Of Spices and meet Épices et Love with their Franco-Indian fusion dosa Today’s Special and a whole host of television shows like and chapati wraps. In the US, Indian street food has seen a outsourced and The big bang Theory for example. huge boom with the likes of Bollywood Bites in Los Angeles, traditional Indian food with a modern twist at spice box in Popular desi fare Indianapolis and New York’s The Desi Food Truck, which offers Indian cuisine is so popular that many Hollywood and street food dishes from all over the Indian subcontinent. western television shows have references to it, showing it as part of their popular culture. no longer is curry made fun of as One nation, many varieties food that will give one a bad tummy. Instead, top food shows And it’s not any particular city or cuisine that is most famous. have had references to Indian dishes, what with a breakfast The popularity enjoyed by cuisines from across India staple like upma winning votes at the finale of one of them including Goan, Punjabi, South Indian, Rajasthani, Gujarati and or a deconstructed paneer gravy making people go wow in even Parsi food. This is one of the reasons why Indian street another. fare like chaats and rolls has gained popularity. The rolls have now transformed themselves into hybrid versions globally, Indian food including kebabs, chicken tikka masala, biryani, like naanwiches and chapati tacos. Indian restaurants are curries, masala dosa and even the humble naan are now serving newer avatars of popular Indian dishes for the immensely popular and available in places like UK, Canada, next generation of Indians as well as other residents. And this the Middle East, US and even China. This reflects the soft- holds true not only for regular restaurants that serve Indian power that India has abroad through its food. In fact, most food. From street stalls to subway cafeterias to Michelin- of the Hollywood celebrities and singers who tour India have starred restaurants, Indian food and ingredients have made often been quoted about their familiarity with the Indian inroads at every level on the larger gastronomical map. thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 101

the smart herb garden

The Smart Herb Garden enables you to grow fresh herbs, fruits and flowers The Anti-Theft Backpack with zero effort. Plug it in, fill the tank, and your new indoor herb garden will take care of the rest. Their specially developed Smart Soil makes sure staying protected when going about your daily that plants in your garden get the optimal configuration of water, oxygen, routine or when traveling can be difficult, so the and nutrients - so they can thrive with zero effort.This innovative technology ClickPack Pro anti-theft everyday backpacks are helps plants in the indoor gardening kits grow faster and more nutritious designed to ensure it’s not an issue. This backpack with no pesticides, plant hormones, or any other harmful substances is designed to give a peace of mind and a home for required. Their integrated energy efficient LED lighting means that the everything you need to take along.The ClickPack Pro indoor gardens keep your herbs, flowers and fruits growing all year round. has special slash resistant fabric that is 40% stronger than Kevlar, so you can be sure someone won’t be Reason to Buy: It will save your money and it will actually teach you how to able to get through your backpack. It has five major grow a plant. so, what are you waiting for? storage compartments for you to store all your needs and guess what? You can even power up your electronic devices using your ClickPack Pro. Your Skin’s New Best Friend @clickandgrow www.aevena.com Reason to Buy: With this backpack, your days of You need to prepare for the arrival of your little one. worrying is over! but there’s so much more to consider. If only you could join the various nursery essentials into one! Aristotle @korindesign www.korin-design.com combines your baby monitor, nightlight, speaker, camera and sound machine into one simple solution! It’s a baby monitor. It’s a voice-activated smart assistant. It answers your questions, and maybe your kids’ questions, too. It orders more diapers when you run out and soothes babies back to sleep automatically. It plays with your kids. It could be the most exciting the emergence of new brands happen almost on a daily basis that it gets impos- thing toymaker Mattel has ever produced. sible to catch up! But not all is given the limelight they truly deserve and why is Reason to Buy: For parents-to-be out there, this could that? What makes some brands stand out from the rest? It’s the uniqueness that make your dream come true. catches people’s attention! In this new section, we feature some of the brands that we don’t want you to miss. @barrierlight www.mybarrierskin.com

Make the World Your Paper

a self-flying assistant Phree – an unrestricted, high resolution, and portable smart gadget that lets you write, draw, and annotate with a personalized touch.with Imagine with just a simple voice command like, “Hey, Alexa – ask Aire to take a picture,” the hopes of moving away from a screen-heavy culture, the Phree you activate a self-flying robot to lift off from its charging dock, hover above your lets you interact on virtually any surface. Capable of connecting to family, and capture a 360-panorama HD-quality aerial shot all from the comforts of all smart devices (phone, tablet, laptop, flat screen, etc.), the Phree your living room. The same robot can send a live streaming 4K video of each floor in is a highly-versatile, intuitive device designed to integrate with your apartment while you’re away on vacation – keeping your home fully monitored any Bluetooth-enabled gadget. Compatible with Office, One Note, by activating its anomaly detection feature. Introducing Aire by Aevena robotics – a evernote, Acrobat, Google Handwriting, and viber, oTM Technologies cutting-edge autonomous flying assistant designed to safely navigate around your created a writing device tailored to the on-the-go creative. home.With simple hands-free voice commands and minimalist smartphone app flight controls, anyone can easily control Aire from home or away, with no piloting Reason to Buy: because itcould be an incredibly useful travel experience required. companion.

Reason to Buy: Because it is time to re-imagine automation, security,& smart assistants. @gophree www.otmtech.com @aevenarobotics www.aevena.com thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 103

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 105

with their highly feminine feel, frills were seen in various fabrics and were sometimes paired with fringing. Seen at GiambattistaValli, Zadig& Voltaire, Vivetta, MSGM, Givenchy.

soft Pastels While some fashion houses opted for bold, vibrant colours -- sometimes going fluorescent in homage to the 1990s -- most labels showed pastels for SS18. Soft, subtle shades will abound next season, with pastel blues, pale greens, powder pinks, white, nudes and light yellow shades. Seen at Chanel, Michael Kors, Bora Aksu, Armani, DaizyShely.

Risqué transparency The season’s sensual styles put transparency at the heart of SS18. Long skirts and lightweight dresses feature sheer layers, while tops, blouses and dress bodices come in see-through lace, revealing everything beneath, or sometimes preserving modesty with strategically placed patches. Low-cut necklines and décolletés are popular too. Seen at Christopher Kane, Emilia Wickstead, Calvin Klein, PrabalGurung, Zadig& Voltaire, Les Copains, Blumarine, Saint Laurent.

“WHOEVER YOU ARE, WHATEVER Ode to the 1980s SS18 collections featured lots of denim jackets, shirts and pants, as well YOU’RE INTO, FIND CLOTHES THIS as high-waist darted pants, satin and shiny fabrics, glittery details and garments with striking shoulders -- all echoing fashion trends of the SPRING THAT HIGHLIGHT YOUR 1980s. BEST YOU.” seen at lacoste, Gucci, versace, Tom Ford, Topshop. Cards, Comics and Everyday Objects And just like that Fashion Month is officially over. The whirlwind four-week From the Queen of Hearts at Dolce &Gabbana and American comics at runway extravaganza spanned New York, London, Milan, and most recently Paris, Prada, to Annakiki’s critique of smartphones and social networks, Andy has seen an array of top notch fashion houses showcasing their latest collections warhol’s pop art and vogue magazine covers at versace, or tiny toys on the runway. on hoods and in hair at Comme des Garcons -- references to culture and to everyday objects were legion on the SS18 runways. If there’s one takeaway from the Spring Summer 2018 (SS18) runways in the Seen at Versace, Dolce &Gabbana, Prada, Annakiki, Comme des four major fashion cities, it’s that fashion is about more than just garments. The garçons. overarching message of the 30-odd days of international shows was not about hemlines or prints, but of diversity, acceptance, resistance, and strength. whether asymmetric Cuts you respond to the calls to action in New York and Paris, ascribe to the escapism designers showed a multitude of pieces with asymmetric cuts for the of Milan, or thrill to the celebrations of womanhood in london, the meaning was season. Tops, blouses and jackets were first in line, revealing a single clear: Let your clothes reflect the person you are. shoulder for a sensual and glamorously feminine touch. Miniskirts were also seen shorter at one side than the other, along with some Through that lens, we honed in on the women who will rule 2018—and what tailored jackets and a handful of dresses. they’ll be wearing. For the eternal optimists, there are dresses in all the colours Seen at Céline, Taoray Wang, palmer//harding, DaizyShely, Lacoste, of the rainbow at Dolce &Gabbana. Pragmatists will approve of garments that stella McCartney, Thom browne. do double duty, like Balenciaga’s hybrid coats. Rebels can shine brazenly despite the chaos in disco sequins from Pacorabanne. Those who own their sex appeal fabulous fringing will do it smartly and subversively in Alexander McQueen’s deshabille bustiers. BY AIN MC The roaring twenties are in vogue next season. It isn’t a huge trend, but the And for anyone eager to get away from it all and revel in a little joie de vivre, fringing seen all over SS18 runways nods to the era. Tops, skirts, pants, crop the season’s boldest couture shapes, like Saint Laurent’s feathery poufs, are tops and jackets are all finished with fringing for a refined, retro look. More transporting. elaborate creations use layers of fringing to bring movement to stylish dresses. Karl lagerfeld even brought fringing to Chanel’s iconic tweed. Now let’s take the time to take stock of the key trends spotted on the runways seen at Tod’s, daizyshely, Chanel, veronique leroy, elie saab. of the four fashion capitals -- New York, London, Milan and Paris -- during the fashion month. Flowers Back in Bloom FASHION In keeping with the spring season, flowers are back, with colourful blooms and sporty Chic FASHION natural florals seen in mini and XXL versions. Blooms adorn dresses from head to Sportswear has been a major womenswear trend for several seasons. This toe, or are combined with other spring-inspired motifs. Jeremy Scott even turned showed no sign of waning during the recent fashion month, with lots of sports- models on the Moschino runway into walking bouquets. inspired details seen on elegant and feminine silhouettes or sometimes on highly seen at Francesco scognamiglio, vivetta, Moschino, Giorgio Armani, etro, Marni, sophisticated looks. For SS18, this is characterized by flat shoes -- sometimes Dolce &Gabbana, Dries Van Noten, Rochas, Ungaro. even sneakers -- as well as technical fabrics used alongside luxury fabrics, shorts worn with glam blazers, and soccer jerseys or polo shirts worn as dresses and leather, Denim and PVC matched with refined accessories and details. Leather and denim will be on trend next season. Leather brings a punk rock ‘n’ roll Seen at Off-White, Koché, Lacoste, Burberry, Atsushi Nakashima, The-Sirius, vibe to the season while denim adds a retro, sportswear and streetwear touch to Annakiki, Jour/Né. MONTH MONTH sophisticated silhouettes. PVC -- preferably of the clear variety -- is another key material for the seasoon, especially for accessories. frills galore Seen at Balmain, Chanel, Alexander Wang, Tommy Hilfiger, Moschino, Annakiki, New York, London, Milan and Paris agreed that frills will be big next season. sPrinG/sUMMer 2018 Trussardi, Christian dior. Dresses, blouses, tops and skirts all came adorned with frills, in styles ranging from glam to ethereal to sophisticated and sometimes even a touch pastoral.

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 BRAND REVIEW 107 UNRAVELING THE MYSTERY OF DINOSAURS

DINOSAURS ARE “ALIVE AND ROARING” AT THE MATIC, KUALA LUMPUR

Write up by : aNu VENugOPal

There is something about dinosaurs that continue to capture our entering the circus like tent where the fun (and education) begins. Triceratops to Pachycephalosaurus, Stegosaurus and Saltasaurus, country as well as tourists and expats within the Klang Valley. The hearts and attention despite being extinct since 65 million years ago. Spread out and organized, there is plenty to take in when steps into dinosaur lovers have the chance to close to these mechanical largest dinosaur exhibition in the region is an ideal diversion for kids Majestic in size and strong in stature, the beauty of dinosaurs lies in the home of these animatronic animals. yet almost real creatures that sometimes wink, move and roar.during weekdays and holidays as it not just entertains but educates them being encircled by an air of mystery and discovery of history. each exhibit comes with a name plate and information about the them about the much loved and feared warm-blooded reptiles of These pre-historic reptiles, which come in various sizes, habits and when entering the exhibition space, the Jurassic-themed forest dinosaur – which have soft and rubber-like skin. the past. lifestyles, continue to gain legions of fans from across the world every site takes one by surprise, especially with Tyrannosaurus the Rex in day. the middle of the entrance. The 9m-tall and 25m-longT-Rex , (as it since opening its tent doors, Dinosaurs Alive in Kuala lumpur has “A lot of work and effort have been made by the organisers and is affectionately called) is one of the highlights of the display and gotten interest from owners to ensure the exhibition will appeal to local and It is believed that the word “dinosaurs” was first coined by British was made especially for the exhibition. Cool and dark, the exhibition dinosaur lovers and international tourists who are interested in the pre-historic palaeontologist Richard Owen in 1842, translating as “terrible lizard” area consists of strobe lights and LED lights in various colours that families from creatures. The animatronic creatures were shipped in in Greek. While many appear to be menacing and forbidding, these illuminate and spotlight these dinosaurs – some known and others across containers from Australia and set-up by the crew ancient animals have been studied by men for many years, after the waiting to be discovered. with a blast of dry ice that is released into the of Showtime Australia at the site located at discovery of bones and fossils – and made its way into people’s lives the air, the atmosphere transforms into a site that is misty, mysterious MaTic,” added Rasila. through books, magazines, cartoons, television programmes and and exciting. movies like Jurassic Park. Apart from displaying a variety of dinosaurs, in The animatronic dinosaurs represent a selection of herbivores different shapes and sizes, the exhibition features The “Dinosaurs Alive in Kuala Lumpur” exhibition gives Malaysian and carnivores creatures that once walked on interactive games for children, a dinosaur sand- dinosaur followers a chance to discover the mystery and magic that earth, according to palaeontologists crafting area, dinosaur bone assembly activities these creatures have. The pop-up Jurassic themed tent is now on and findings of dinosaurs bones and history area. Among the most popular from 10am to 10pm daily, at the MaTiC Lanai, located at the Malaysia around the world. From activity among children include children having Tourism Centre (MaTiC) at 109, Jalan Ampang, Kuala lumpur. the LeaellynasauraI, the chance to experience the lives and lifestyles of Allosaurus and palaeontologists, wearing special lab coats and goggles A fun-filled exhibition that is larger than life, Dinosaurs Alive gives before discovering their own dinosaur discovery at the dinosaur followers and new admirers of all ages the chance to enjoy a dinosaur egg and fossil dig zone. With jumping castles, one-of-a-kind educational and entertaining showcase. Officially games as well as themed food and beverage zones there opened on August 14, the exhibition is an initiative by is plenty of activity for the whole family, who have spent MaTiC in collaboration with Creative Alliance and an average of two hours per visit – with celebrities such as Dinosaurs Touring, a Melbourne-based company. Scha Alyahya, Nabil Ahmad and Malaysia’s rock icon Amy Search visiting the exhibition with their families. “The owners of theDinosaurs Alive exhibition, who are passionate about dinosaurs worked With the ability to thrill visitors of all ages and curiosity levels, tickets with palaeontologists to create and bring to for “Dinosaurs Alive in Kuala Lumpur” are priced at RM50 per adult life dinosaurs of different kinds and ages. The and RM30 for children aged three to 12. Discounts are available for 40 animatronic dinosaurs displayed at the site groups of 10 and more as well as for school groups of 20 or more have been made so that they are close to actual students. Packages and bookings are also available for private and dinosaurs which lived years ago,” said Rasila corporate events, social groups, vIPs and special functions with prior Hamzah, director of Public relations, Dinosaurs arrangement. Alive at Kuala lumpur.

so far the Dinosaurs Alive exhibition has seen 50,000 visitors so far, with more expected to visit the temporary site until the last day of operations, on January 14, 2018. The animatronic Pachycephalosaurid sets the mood for visitors as they enter the grounds of MaTic, and

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 BRAND REVIEW 109

DISCOVER AMAZING acrobatic performances – entertainment that passengers “We strongly believe that, with our Asian DNA, food is can enjoy every night. They also had a chance to taste foodalways important to us. we are proud to say that we do not prepared by the chefs on the ship, before going on a tour compromise on the culinary experience. Aside from Asian around the vessel to learn more about the amenities offered. food, we also provide international cuisine that is also halal DESTINATIONS for all to enjoy,” Mr Goh added. with Penang previously as the only homeport for superstar libra in Malaysia, domestic travellers nationwide and The guests can look forward to many exciting activities WiTh sTar CrUises sUPersTar international passengers can now celebrate with more on board the 10-storey cruise ship. A show lounge, options to either embark from the historically rich culture karaokecity bar, beauty salon and spa and jacuzzi cater to a liBra’s neW TriPle hoMePorTs of Penang or the modern bustling city of Kuala lumpur via its wide range of leisure interests, while the almost limitless new main homeport in Port Klang, Malaysia. Kuala lumpur onboard entertainment which includes live international remains one of the key gateway to Malaysia and also the performances, shopping at luxury retailers and duty-free Imagine yourself waking up to a brand new tropical With two cruises per week, including the 3-nights Kuala dollars, growing both the local cruise tourism and southeast Asian region with an expected targeted inbound shops, taking part in various sports and recreational activities paradise at your doorstep everyday for three consecutive Lumpur (via Port Klang)/Phuket/Penang cruise or the international/inbound travel via the fly-cruise travel tourism of over 30 million in 2017. In Thailand, Phuket is also and relaxing at the swimming pools, as well as a wide range days without going through the hassle of flight 4-nights Kuala Lumpur (via Port Klang)/Langkawi/Phuket/ market. a renowned destination for many international tourists and of shore excursions at various popular destinations ensures connections, queuing for weary train and bus journeys, Penang cruise, guests in southeast Asia as well as the star Cruises is now opening up options for travellers from an unbeatable cruising experience for families, couples and haggling with taxi drivers over cab fares and packing and region will now have more flexibility and easy access toGenting Cruise Lines International Sales senior vice- the island, both domestic and from the fly-cruise travel to the young at heart. star Cruises remains passionate and unpacking your luggage. Now, imagine leaving the cares take a cruise with SuperStar Libra from any of these threepresident Michael Goh said the introduction of multiple hop a cruise with superstar libra. committed in offering the best cruise experience with a free of the world behind you as you step into a world of luxury well-connected key cities, especially Kuala Lumpur, which home ports offers guests the flexibility to take a cruise and easy cruising holiday concept, accentuated by world- where all your wants and needs are attended to by gracious is now a major aviation hub in Asia. from any of the three well-connected key cities. SuperStar Libra, at 42,285 gross registered tons, is 216.3m class service with a familiar touch of Asian hospitality. hostesses on a floating holiday resort. Further imagine long and 32.64m wide, and has an average cruising speed you have the option of boarding this buoyant palace from Mr. Ang Moo lim, President of star Cruises recently of 17 knots. The ship offers 718 cabins, including 25 suites star Cruises is also introducing a new destination to local three different locations without having to fly in to join the commented that he is extremely delighted with superstar “The cruising business caters to both the local and with 1,436 lower berths to suit diverse needs and budget and international passengers – Macleod Island in southern cruise. Sounds too good to be true? Well, your dream has libra’s new deployment in Kuala lumpur, together international markets. Those overseas will reach Malaysia from the spacious cabins of the executive suites with their Myanmar. “We are the first in the cruise industry to bring our just been realised when Star Cruises recently announced in with Penang and Phuket and is optimistic that viathe the international airports in Penang or Kuala lumpur. own personal living room space to the amazing sea view of passengers to this island, which is beautiful and remains early August 2017 on their exciting new package offered company will grow its source markets in Southeast GoodAsia, flight connections give us the opportunity to bring oceanview staterooms and more. The full range of facilities untouched. One can do snorkelling, sea kayaking and even by their cruise ship superstar libra. allowing guests more access to multiple homeports and international passengers to these cities. They can then includes eight restaurants and bars offering international jungle trekking. The cruise itinerary to Macleod is bi-weekly, concurrently developing and stimulating the growth of spend a few days exploring the cities before boarding cuisines and beverages to satisfy all tastes. starting from november to March as this is the best time due with the announcement, superstar libra will deploy from the cruise tourism sector across borders through fly-cruisethe cruise ship,” said Goh at the launch of the triple home to the nice weather,” Goh explained, adding that people have 3 September 2017 onwards with triple homeports based options. Throughout star Cruises’ outstanding long history ports. a choice of either this island or Langkawi for their four-night in Kuala lumpur via Port Klang and Penang in Malaysia, as and strong connection with Malaysia and Thailand, the cruise holiday. well as in Phuket, Thailand. With the triple homeports, Star company had pioneered the cruising Guests and the media were invited into Cruises hopes to tap into Kuala lumpur’s growing role as industry in the region for over 24 yearsone of the lounges to catch a glimpse of a top regional air hub with fly-cruise options and boosting and will continue to do so, bringing the stunning musical and southeast Asia’s cruise industry. in millions of tourists and tourism

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 111

about genting Cruise lines has embarked on a significant brand expansion introducing Genting Cruise lines is a division of Genting Hong Kong two new classes of cruising - Crystal Yacht Cruises and comprising of three distinct cruise brands - Star Cruises, Crystal River Cruises - and reaching new heights with Crystal Dream Cruises and Crystal Cruises - providing a range of luxury Air and Crystal AirCruises. products from contemporary cruises to ultra-luxurious vacation experiences spanning the sea to air. about star Cruises Star Cruises is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Genting Hong established in 1993, star Cruises is the pioneer in the Asia Kong, a leading global leisure, entertainment and hospitality Pacific cruise industry currently with a fleet of six ships corporation. A pioneer in the Asia Pacific cruise industry, Star catering to the contemporary market segment. As “The Most Cruises has been operating its fleet since 1993, taking on the Popular Cruise Line in Asia”, Star Cruises will further expand bold initiative to grow the region as an international cruise its footprint in the region with the delivery of two new destination with a fleet of six vessels including SuperStar “Global Class” ships, each measuring 201,000 gross tons, invirgo, superstar libra, superstar Gemini, superstar Aquarius, 2020 and 2021. star Pisces and The Taipan.

“Asia’s Luxury Cruise Line”, Dream Cruises delivers the Star Cruises’ commitment in offering best-in-class services highest level of guest service and spacious comfort in the and facilities is reflected in a host of recognitions and region via newly launched Genting Dream (November 2016) accolades received over the years. These include being and the upcoming World Dream (late 2017). Developed for inducted into the prestigious Travel Trade Gazette’s “Travel the high-end consumers in China and Asia, Dream Cruises Hall of Fame” for a ninth year in 2016 in recognition of will provide passengers with more choice, comfort and value winning “Best Cruise Operator in the Asia-Pacific” for 10 to create a perfect dream voyage. consecutive years. Star Cruises was also recently voted “Asia’s Leading Cruise Line” at the World Travel Awards for the sixth Crystal Cruises is “The World’s Most Awarded Luxury Cruise year in a row in 2017. Line”, having earned more “World’s Best” awards than any other cruise line, hotel, or resort in history. recently, Crystal For details, visit www.starcruises.com

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 BRAND REVIEW 113

VolVo XC90 T8 safety features second to None For the run-off-road protection package, the all-new Volvo Driving Performance safety is a given in a volvo and the XC90 is no exception. XC90 detects what is happening and the front safety belts For those unfamiliar with Volvo’s T8 Twin Engine, the plug- Volvo’s seven-seat entry has garnered for itself the are tightened to keep the occupants in position. To help in hybrid powertrain employs a 2.0 litre four-cylinder super Twin Engine Hybrid reputation of being the safest bet, in the most literal sense prevent spinal cord injury, energy-absorbing functionality and turbocharged Drive-E petrol engine and an electric of the term, for all its occupants and even those around it. between the seat and seat frame cushions the vertical motor. There is also a 150 Nm crankshaft-mounted starter volvo’s safety reputation for the new XC90 has earned it forces that can arise when the car encounters a hard generator (CISG) positioned between the engine and eight- Superb, LuxuriouS, eLegantLy Crafted a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for landing in the terrain. speed torque converter automatic transmission to help Highway safety. That represents the highest possible score with low-speed or from stationary acceleration. in all tests, including superior for its front-crash prevention The car also has a city safety features with auto brake in BY NURILYA ANIS RAHIM system. intersections. The XC90 is the first car in the world with Before reaching the resort, driving along Gerik’s winding technology that features automatic braking if the driver road can be quite a challenge but with the SUV’s superb The XC90 is the first model to be based on Volvo’s new turns in front of an oncoming car. Intellisafe with city safety handling, it made the drive supersmooth – body motions a gorgeously compelling new entry that is upending the luxury-suV oligarchy. volvo has emerged stronger as ever with the second generation of XC90, the scalable Product Architecture (sPA), whereby the batteries has become the umbrella name for all of volvo Cars’ auto were well controlled and the XC90 was comfortable, stable, On our weekend trip to Belum Rainforest Resort in Pulau Banding, Gerik, we were impressive start of an all-new lineup developed under Chinese owner Geely. The are fitted within the platform’s central tunnel to minimise brake collision avoidance functions, which are standard and reassuring even in rapid driving. given the opportunity to review the new handsome, square-jawed XC90 T8 Plug XC90 is an elegant Swede that offers more efficiency and safety than its rivals, the possibility of it being damaged during a crash. equipment in the new XC90. Meanwhile adaptive cruise in Hybrid by Volvo Cars Malaysia. With Perak’s scenic view along the highway while adding a dose of Scandinavian flair. With an upright and bold countenance, control with pilot assist traffic jam assistant enables safeIn terms of performance, the plug-in hybrid powertrain will and coastal villages on the trunk road, driving the widely-lauded technologically- the XC90 exudes confidence, along with a full complement of features and The SUV comes with advanced safety features like seven and comfortable semi-autonomous driving. propel the 2,343 kg SUV to 100 km/h from a rest in 5.6 advanced SUV up north was just a smooth and remarkable experience. When we technology, comfortably earns its way further upmarket than previous XC90s. In airbags, lane departure warning, lane keeping aid, roll seconds, and on to an electronically-limited top speed of first picked up the car, we got quite intimidated with all the electronic features, case you think it’s getting by on looks alone, the Volvo manages to pack more stability control and hill descent control. Also fitted is the Clearly, the XC90 was made for being better in other areas 230 km/h. It’s impressive how the seven-seater is capable but as the Volvo personnel handed me the car key, he assured us, “Don’t worry third-row and cargo space. There’s room for seven in the elegantly appointed park assist pilot system, for both parallel and perpendicular of its being – especially to stay in line with the swedish of lunging forward with such urgency when you consider about making any mistakes as the car will fix it for you”, and his statement was interior, with deeply comfortable seats as well as sensus, volvo’s new infotainment parking. A latest addition is an inclination sensor that ties in car maker’s ambitions of having no one killed or seriously that the bulk of the vehicle’s power is supplied by a 2.0 litre proven true after the trip. system. with car’s alarm system, detecting if the car is being towed injured in a new Volvo by year 2020. four-pot petrol engine. or jacked up.

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 115 The petrol engine is smooth, and presents a very linear throttle response. Clearly, this 2.0 feels a lot more capable than what its numbers alone suggest. Combined fuel consumption is 2.1 litres per 100 km (47.6 km per litre), and if you choose to run on just electricity, you could get as far as 43 km according to European NEDC test cycle.

Make no mistake, the term “Twin Engine” is not for nothing — this variant of the XC90 comes equipped with two sources of power; a 320 hp/400 Nm Drive-E 2.0 litre super and turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a rear-mounted 87 hp/240 Nm electric motor. Volvo claims that its combined total system output is good for 407 hp and 640 Nm of torque.

Power for the electric motor comes from a 9.2 kWh rectangular lithium-ion traction battery. The battery can be recharged via a household socket with the included portable charger, taking 3.5 hours on our regular Malaysian power supply (240 V, 13 amps). Energy recuperation from braking and coasting as you drive is also another method of charging the battery.

Speaking of drive modes, there are five of them available to help you get the most out of your XC90’s going – hybrid, pure electric, power mode, AWD, and save. In “hybrid” mode, the XC90 employs a power strategy that automatically alternates between drawing power from the petrol engine and the electric motor, depending on what it anticipates your driving objectives are at the time – be it power, or efficiency.

In “pure electric,” the car relies solely on its electric motor for forwards propulsion. With a fully- The second-gen XC90 is longer, wider and lower than its The car’s centre console is split right down the middle with Cargo & storage charged battery, Volvo claims that you can get a driving range of up to 40 km before depleting predecessor – measuring 4,950 mm long, 2,008 mm wide the half closer to the driver features the crystal glass gear Apart from its masterfully minimalistic techno-wizardry, the charge. In “power” mode, you get what you expect, maximum power from all available and 1,776 mm tall. On top of the new dimensions that make knob from Swedish glassmaker Orrefors, and a diamond- the XC90 is also impressively designed where spaciousness reserves. Using the “AWD” mode expectedly forces the XC90 to maintain its all-wheel drive for a more spacious cabin, the new XC90 is also lighter than cut engine start-stop button and drive mode selector. The and interior comfort is concerned. At first the front seats power delivery as best as it can – maintaining the proposed state for as long as there’s charge the model it replaces, contributing to better fuel efficiency, remaining half slides open to reveal a deep and slotted seem overly firm, but the more time spent in them the left in the traction battery. improved performance, and a more manageable ride. pocket that will grip two cups, has a 12-volt power socket more orthopedically perfect they feel. The second row of and additional room between the two areas for further seats is comfortable for outboard passengers where leg To save up on power, the “save” mode is available to prevent the vehicle from drawing energy There’s not a lot of new ground in the realm of SUV styling, storage. and shoulder room is exceptional and it features volvo’s from the lithium-ion cells, allowing you to save the pure electric range for a later point in your so it pays to go simple. volvo has no problem with that; a popular built-in booster seat for kids. While the third row journey. However, it is only capable of recharging the battery to quarter-full, which if you’re not simple, clean aesthetic is its calling card on almost all its the Ergonomics & Electronics would be less comfortable in terms of leg space and seat careful with later on, depletes very quickly indeed. vehicles. The XC90 stands out with an elegant yet simple Today’s cars are more computer on wheels than ever, and materials, which are noticeably thinner. Scandinavian design. The whole look is solidified with Volvo made a bold move by placing a nine-inch tablet- Personally, we found that leaving the XC90 T8 Twin Engine in its default “hybrid” mode is good volvo’s signature ‘Thor’s Hammer’ led headlight which like touch-screen display at the centre. It seamlessly with all seats upright and in usable position, the XC90 has a enough to gain you all the benefits of low emissions, low fuel consumption driving, whilst comes with led Active bending lights and Active High integrates into the dashboard with an intuitive but unique total of 436 litres of boot space behind the third-row seats. allowing the car to react in a natural way to your throttle inputs — unleashing the powertrain’s beam Control. interface logic and a single physical home button at the The adaptive suspension comes in handy when accessing max capacity when needed, or reverting to full electric power when efficiency is preferred. bottom – it took us no more than a minute to fully grasp the cargo area, as the load floor is quite high. With the Moving down the sides, there is a set of 20-inch, 10-spoke the concept and became pros ourselves. It controls nearly adaptive suspension, it can be lowered by a button to make What the Volvo does have going for itself is an additional selectable gear position — where silver diamond-cut alloys wrapped in 275/45 tyres. all in-car features from air conditioning, navigation, media it easier to reach. The power liftgate opens automatically conventional vehicles typically have the P, R, N and D (park, reverse, neutral, drive) options, the Highlights include LED Adaptive Brake Lights, dual and system updates to safety features like lane departure when you approach and stand at the rear of the XC90 for a XC90 has an extra “B” (Brake) position which basically further encourages energy recuperation exhaust tips and a power-operated tailgate with handsfree warning which impressed me the most. few seconds, making loading items far more easier. by increasing the amount of engine-braking under off-throttle instances. When the “B” position operation. value in Its Class is selected, the battery does noticeably charge back up at a quicker rate. Unlike the CBU offering that came with a colour palette The XC90 also has a number of surprise-and-delight totalling eleven, the CKD XC90 is only offered in five features such as a sunroof shade and the ability to saving the best for last, Malaysia is the only other country However, it should be clarified that the XC90 T8 Twin Engine requires no special treatment exterior colours – Ice White, Onyx Black, Saville Grey, adjust the passenger seat using the driver’s-side controls.in the world to produce the flagship XC90 outside of beyond your regular duties with a basic fuel-powered vehicle. As mentioned, the vehicle is Twilight bronze and bright silver. Meanwhile the multifunction steering wheel has buttons Sweden, specifically at Volvo’s plant in Shah Alam, Selangor. capable all on its own of regenerating energy back into its traction battery, without you ever for the cruise control on the left spoke, while the buttons wwThe base price of this car might make your eyes pop, needing to physically plug the vehicle into a charging socket — negating any issues surrounding interior Design on the right give you control over the 12.3-inch full-LCD but when you take into account the standard all-wheel lacking infrastructure where you live. Volvo is known for sparse interiors, which makes it harder digital instrument panel’s menus and voice control system. drive, power liftgate, navigation and panoramic moonroof, to connote a sense of luxury, but the XC90 does the job it’s not considerably more than competitors. This locally Likewise, the advantage of at least having a wallbox charger in your homes can make a fantastically. The detailed and gorgeous interior includes There’s also a dedicated dual-zone air-conditioning system assembled luxury is retailed at RM403,888 while the significant difference — should your regular commutes be short, you could theoretically run on linear walnut wood trim, which also adorns the sliding at the back with a very impressive-looking digital display imported version retails at RM453,888. pure electric mode indefinitely, so long as you are disciplined enough with the throttle pedal, cupholder cover. Another above-and-beyond detailing on the centre tunnel with excellent touch sensitivity. and don’t drive more than 30 to 40 km a day. is the stitching that decorates the leather dash and door The standard four-zone climate control is a nice feature, inserts actually continues unabated behind the grab tab for allowing all three rows to control their The one inevitable inconvenience, for Malaysians especially, is that the XC90 is unavoidably the sunshades on the rear side glass. The key fob is also airflow and temperature with a very large vehicle. Fortunately, surrounding visibility isn’t any sort of a hassle. You may not wrapped in the same nappa leather as the seats. the two front occupants realise it at first, but the square shape of the XC90’s body paired with good driver positioning get their own helps outward visibility tremendously. The low window line, narrow A-pillars do lots to keep zones. your view unobstructed, while there is of course a Park Assist Pilot with 360 degree Surround view camera to guide you.

luxuRiOus styliNg Exterior Design One of the many highs of this SUV can be seen in the form of its brand new platform for which the latest XC90 is built on. Volvo’s engineers were able to give its latest model a level-up by not only making it larger, but developing it around what they’ve studied to be the interests of the brand’s customers – a philosophy Volvo stands firmly on.

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 BRAND PASSPORT 117 Te Waip ounamu THE SOUTH ISLAND OF NEW ZEALAND

Write up by : aiN MC

NEW ZEALAND’S SOUTH ISLAND IS SIMPLY ONE OF THE MOST STUNNING PLACES ON EARTH. THE NORTH ISLAND IS HOME TO BEAUTIFUL BEACHES AND THE COUNTRY’S TWO MOST COSMOPOLITAN CITIES, BUT THE SOUTH ISLAND’S UNTOUCHED, WILD BEAUTY AND DIVERSITY OF TERRAINS SETS IT APART AS IT HOSTS THE PUREST NATURAL LANDSCAPES YOU WILL EVER EXPERIENCE.

SOUTH ISLAND IS AN ISLAND OF BIG SCENERY AND A NATURAL PLAYGROUND. DRAMATIC MOUNTAINS AND GLACIERS SWEEP DOWN TO MYSTERIOUS FJORDS CARVED DEEP INTO THE COASTLINE, SECLUDED SANDY BEACHES PROVIDE A GATEWAY TO FORESTED NATIONAL PARKS, AND TINY COASTAL AND LAKESIDE TOWNS BELIE THEIR SIZE WITH AN AWE-INSPIRING RANGE OF OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES.

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 119

01

the untouched Beauty Alpine landscapes meet lush and breathtaking valleys in New At the heart of it lies Lake Tekapo, one of New Zealand’s most Zealand’s glorious South Island. Ski enthusiasts, mountaineers, photographed lakes because of its powdery blue water and the swimmers and surfers, oenophiles (wine lovers) and general perfectly positioned Church of the Good shepherd that stands 02 wanderlusters will find a natural paradise in this Southernon the southern edge of the lake. This tiny church features region of the land of the long white cloud. The variety of an altar window that frames stunning views of the lake and experiences available is so extensive, most visitors find the bestmountains. It is impossible to not be mesmerized with the image : 1) The surreal morning view at Lake Mapourika. way to take it all in is to jump into a caravan and hit the beautyroad of this lake. 2) The hike to Arthur’s Pass National Park for a couple of weeks. 3) Church of the Good shepherd The loveliest surprise that comes in a form of a beautiful Here, towering alps meet peaceful sounds and rugged scenery is probably one of the most underrated of all the lakes coastlines merge with sweeping plains. Just when you on think new Zealand’s south Island. As you drive over the rise on the you have seen the most beautiful sight in your life, you turn the road from Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki appears out of nowhere giving. For instance, an observatory may not driest climates. The extra altitude of Mt John, corner, another one crops up and takes your breath away again! and stuns drivers to instantly slow. We found the colour of Lake be on everyone’s travel itinerary; but if you about 1000m, means even less atmosphere Pukaki to be more amazing than Lake Tekapo but it’s not just pay a visit to the Mt John observatory, you between the telescopes and the stars. It was one of the most picture perfect regions of new Zealand, the the colour that makes this lake so impressive, at the far north might just make one of the best decisions amazing how much could be seen with the Mackenzie Basin, home to Lake Tekapo and Mt Cook Village, of the lake is New Zealand’s tallest mountain, Mt Cook, in all in your life. What makes it such a great spotnaked eye in such clear conditions, especially lies roughly in the centre of the south Island between the its glory. for an observatory is the incredibly clear with someone knowledgable to show where sprawling plains of Canterbury and the towering mountains of skies it enjoys from its position - in the torain look and what to look for. the southern Alps. New Zealand’s South Island is indeed an island that keeps on shadow of the alps, with one of the country’s

03 thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 121

03

01

The nights in South Island is definitely one of the many things that will leave an everlasting impression on visitors. The incredible clarity of the night sky is 04 beyond compare - but the brightness of the stars on a clear frosty night in South Island rivalled the best of them. image : 03)The majestic 8th Wonder of the World, Milford Sound. 04) Castle Hill - where the famous battle of the White Witch of Narnia 8th Wonder of the World happened. one of the most scenic routes you can experience while driving around south Island if that one of Te Anau to Milford sound. The road to Milford sound is Here, steep cliffs rise out of deep blue water and fur seals sunbathe on as much a scenic experience as the fjord itself. Get your camera ready for this rocks. Your boat cruise may take you up to the Bowen Falls – which are world-renowned journey as this short road trip takes you to remote - but still 160m high – or the Stirling Falls, which cascade into the fjord like a accessible - locations set amongst breath taking, out-of-this-world landscapes. giant shower. some boats have underwater viewing observatories, and all provide panoramic photo opportunities. Look out for penguins and From Queenstown, follow the road to Te Anau as it winds round the gentle dolphins, as well as whales – the occasional one makes it all the way curves of Lake Wakatipu. The scenery here is stunning - lakeside vistas are into the fiords. Your heart can only take so much. framed by the rugged face of a magnificent mountain range appropriately named The Remarkables. Easy rolling countryside soon leads you to the shores Endless Discoveries of Lake Te Anau, the biggest of the South Island’s many lakes. On the western It won’t be an easy task to write down the best tips and side, the long arms of the lake disappear into the looming, densely forested recommendations for new Zealand south island road trip without Murchison Mountains. 02 repeating the words awesome, great, incredible, stunning, fantastic image : and impressive too much. The picturesque township of Te Anau is the main visitor base for the glacier- 01) On top of Mount John Observatory, overlooking what might be the carved wilderness that is Fiordland National Park. Home to a wide range of best view in new Zealand. It is no surprise that the dream-like island was the chosen homes accommodation including lodges, hotels and and campgrounds, Te Anau is the 02) Lake Pukaki, a sight to behold and one that will instantly capture your for mystical creatures of the famous lord of the rings and the great heart. perfect stopover on the way to Milford sound from Queenstown. kingdom of Narnia. God has indeed spent extra time in putting the country into existence with its untouched beauty. Once you have reached Milford Sound, you are in for a remarkable experience and definitely an unforgettable one. Described by Rudyard Kipling as the ‘eighth Whether you’re glacier walking, or strolling along a beach, there is wonder of the world’, Milford sound was carved by glaciers during the ice ages. always something to marvel at in new Zealand. south Island providing The spectacular geography and wildlife of Milford sound is best experienced a majestic backdrop for whatever escapade one may desire to embark up-close on a cruise. on, your visit is guaranteed to be memorable and the first of many.

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 MOVIE REVIEW 123 THOR: RAGNAROK THE MARVEL CINEMATIC UNIVERSE’S MOST AUDACIOUS ENTRY SO FAR, THOR’S THIRD STAND-ALONE MOVIE GOES THERE WITH WILD, BOLD CHOICES -- AND IT SUCCEEDS, EPICALLY, ON MANY LEVELS.

Thor: Ragnarok is proof that Marvel has finally allotted space any previous outing, yet more willing to let Thor breathe borderline painful when you realize what’s actually being for a new cinematic voice to take total control over one of and dabble in the gray areas of humanity. From here the said. its franchises in desperate need of change. Ragnarok is a various plot arcs extend in patterns so complicated that doodle notebook full of teenage daydreams, a neon-infused it puts both Guardians of the Galaxy entries to shame. It’s the filling out of a bonkers cinematic world in record fantasy of what superhero films could look like. There are we meet characters that are given a depth of story and breaking ease that establishes Ragnarok as the bright gigantic monsters and beautiful women; zombie armies background so easily conveyed via a few comedic lines that shining star in the Marvel gauntlet. Cate blanchett’s and a big spooky dog; an evil witch and Jeff Goldblum, butthe extraneous exposition of entries like Civil War seem villain, Hela, has the most bloodthirsty introduction of any this isn’t just a wacky movie made for the sake of wackiness.positively novice by comparison. There is not one character antagonist in the series, Hiddleston’s Loki has an emotional Ragnarok is the child of confident filmmaking journey that fits excellently within the bigger and understanding of what the Thor franchise story, and Tessa Thompson’s Valkyrie manages to could have always been. steal the film in the process.

2011’s Thor was an otherworldly Not to mention that Hulk can talk now. Hulk Shakespearean tragedy most famous for and Thor have a “Withnail & I in space” vibe introducing Loki as a primary antagonist to the where they cannot seem to escape from their franchise and explaining who, exactly, Thor is. vacation together. It ties back to the ending of Thor: The Dark World allowed us to witness Ultron and while those plot points seem so long the absolutely criminal misuse of Christopher ago, there’s a cruelty in their delivery that does Eccleston as the villainous Malekith. Where more with whedon’s story than whedon was Thor has always shone brightest is within his capable of. That’s only a fraction of this movie more restrained roles in The Avengers and and I’m still putting together the pieces of how Avengers: Age of Ultron. Chris Hemsworth a franchise film can do a weird aside this well. could throw out ten fantastic, funny one-liners From a storytelling standpoint, waititi has given and still come out the winner. Hemsworth has Raganarok seven complete acts, which are all always been the selling point behind the Thor successful. franchise, not so much the world he exists in. There are bad-ass women, monsters, hilarious For Ragnarok, director Taika Waititi — jokes and an appreciated space-punk soundtrack best known for his work on the vampire by Mark Mothersbaugh. Not to mention that mockumentary What We Do In The Shadows doctor strange is better here than in his own — was able to make the film that he saw in his origin adventure movie. Ragnarok sets the new kaleidoscope-encrusted heart. There’s been a standard by which the entire MCU will have to trend lately of grabbing indie film directors with adhere to, including the upcoming Avengers: a notable film under their belts and throwing Infinity War. Rangarok is an intense space opera them behind gigantic projects, watching their that genuinely cares about every character sudden shifts from the minors to the majors having a journey and doesn’t waste a second of crush directors’ otherwise promising careers. screen time on anything artificial. waititi, however, managed to bring the exact nuances of comedy, relationship and loss of Is there anything to criticize? of course. There’s an indie film to one of the biggest blockbuster some sleight drags in the pacing that are entirely action films of 2017 without missing a beat. excusable based on the service they give to the The opening sequence of Ragnarok manages characters. There’s some problems with Hela, to do in a cold-open what some Marvel entries which here manage to include Karl Urban for cannot establish in an entire feature. A clear some reason. Urban plays a conflicted warrior tone is set from the opening shot, featuring a with no real allegiance who is repeatedly tested hilariously over-stylized voiceover from Thor, by his new master in a series of trials that don’t just before he engages in barbed banter with matter because no one cares about the stakes of a horrifying antagonist. As the two argue, the a character that clearly cannot survive the film. dangling Thor keeps spinning just out of frame There’s some world-building lore and backstory and having to circle back in to continue the conversation. in Ragnarok that you don’t immediately understand, that that fails to answer the complicated questions that the you don’t immediately grieve for on some level and that film asks, probably because it just wasn’t nearly as much When the joke is stretched just beyond its breaking point, you don’t immediately wish you could see waititi expand fun as everything else happening on screen. but to say that the God of Thunder engages in an action sequence that into their own spin-off. there’s ten minutes that could’ve been cut, that’s a pretty rivals the biggest video game set-piece you’ve ever seen, mild criticism. doling out combo-moves and hidden powers in a way Even with that, this is the most likable and interesting Thor that guarantees every single attack is a new and riveting has ever been. Hemsworth is given the chance to do what Thor: Ragnarok is a big bet for Marvel. It deviates from choice. Led Zeppelin’s “Immigrant Song” blasts through the Hemsworth should have always been given the chance everything it’s structured the franchise to be, but it’s also screen just as Thor blasts through an army of monsters, and to do: be funny. But the script also makes sure that evena perfect example of taking big risks for even bigger wins. we are quickly brought right back in this universe — but the funniest one-liners Thor uses against Hulk or Loki areThor: Ragnarok is winning like no Marvel movie has won through a lens that is simultaneously more focused than based on a development of their relationships that is often before.

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 BRAND CULTURE 125 what’shappeninG 1ST NOV – 31ST MARCH 2018 15TH NOV – 15TH DEC 2017 EXPO NEGARAKU KL BIENNALE What: Expo Negaraku is to showcase the nation’s development What: The national Art Gallery announced its inaugural edition success stories especially the infrastructure that was built by of the Kuala lumpur biennale with the theme of belAs or the Malaysian Government from 2009 up to the present day be loved that recognizes, embraces and echoes societal - and to help Malaysians visualise the planned projects in values. Featuring a stellar line-up of artists from Southeast the future, for a better quality of life for all citizens. dataran Asia, China, south Korea, Japan and India, the Kl biennale is Merdeka has been chosen as Expo location due to its strategic anticipated by Malaysians and visitors as a highlight on the location, access to public transport facilities such as MrT, city’s cultural calendar, for its active international and local lrT, KTMb and busses, to ease visitors to visit the expo. The collaboration and a meaningful exchange of ideas. expo, which will be opened to the public from 10am to 10pm Where: national Art Gallery everyday will also have different themed events throughout the Website: :www.artgallery.gov.my one month period. Where: Dataran Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur Website: www.pico.com.my 3RD – 5TH NOV 2017 30TH NOV – 3RD DEC 2017 MURFEST PENANG ISLAND JAZZ FESTIVAL What: A unique home-grown now International Urban Retreat What: The 14th Penang Island Jazz Festival features local and Festival. Inaugurated in 2014, MURFEST has grown to position international performers performing in the main festival at Malaysia as a Health & Wellness tourism destination. With bayview beach resort and at the fringe stage at various other more than 6000-8000 participants over 3 days, MURFEST selected venues throughout the island. Held annually on the surely is a not to missed Urban Retreat. 3 days, 80+ Workshops, beautiful island of Penang every first weekend of December, the 1 Asian Health & Wellness Awards, 1 International Zumba festival has through the years seen many local and foreign acts Concert and many activations focused on wellness, Music, and from USA, UK, Australia, South Korea, Japan, Indonesia, Germany, dance norway, netherlands, sweden, brazil, Hungary, China, Taiwan, Where: Le Meridien & IOI Putrajaya vietnam, and more. Website: www.murfest.com Where: bayview beach resort, Penang Website: www.penangjazz.com books

BUILDING A STORYBRAND HOW BRANDS GROW: A WORLD OF THREE ZEROS ENTREPRENEURIAL YOU by Donald Miller WHAT MARKETERS DON’T KNOW by Muhammad Yunus by Dorie Clark donald Miller uses the seven universal by Byron Sharp The book describes the new civilization Dorie Clark, a successful entrepreneur and elements of powerful stories to teach This book provides evidence-based emerging from the economic experiments author, has done it all. In entrepreneurial readers how to dramatically improve answers to the key questions asked by his work has helped to inspire. He explains You she provides a blueprint for how they connect with customers and marketers every day. Tackling issues such how global companies like McCain, professional independence with insights grow their businesses. donald Miller’s as how brands grow, how advertising really renault, essilor, and danone got involved and advice on building your brand, storybrand process is a proven solution works, what price promotions really do and with this new economic model through monetizing your expertise, and extending to the struggle business leaders face how loyalty programs really affect loyalty, their own social action groups, describes your reach and impact online. In short, when talking about their businesses.How brands Grow presents decades of the ingenious new financial tools now engaging chapters she outlines the This revolutionary method for connecting research in a style that is written for funding social businesses, and sketches necessary elements and concrete tactics with customers provides readers with the marketing professionals to grow theirthe legal and regulatory changes needed for entrepreneurial success. she shares the ultimate competitive advantage, revealing brands. It is the first book to presentto jumpstart the next wave of socially stories of entrepreneurs of all kinds--from the secret for helping their customers these laws in context and to explore their driven innovations. He invites young consultants and coaches to podcasters, understand the compelling benefits of meaning and application people, business and political leaders, and bloggers, and online marketers--who have using their products, ideas, or services ordinary citizens to join the movement and generated six- and seven-figure incomes. help create the better world we all dream of. thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 127 BRAND QUOTES

brand thouGhts & tips

“Never let them give you their own branding upon your name, brand yourself to avoid being falsely branded ” Tare Munzara “Be intentionally infectious. Make your brand contagiously buzz worthy” Catrice M. Jackson “Branding is the art of becoming knowable, likable and trustable” John Jantsch “When people use your brand name as a verb, that is remarkable" Meg Whitman “In an era of transparency, you can have innovation without branding, but you cannot have branding without innovation." Martin Sorrell “A great brand is a story that never stops unfolding” Tony Robbins “A branding program should be designed to differentiate your cow from all the other cattle on the range. Even if all the cattle on the range look pretty much alike” Al Ries “Calling for change and being part of making change are two very different things. Stop calling for change and be a part of making the change you want to” Loren Weisman “The only place where success comes before work is in the dictionary” Vidal Sassoon “In order to succeed, we must first believe that we can.” Nikos Kazantzakis

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 129

thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew NOVEMBER - DECEMBER’ 17 #issuE44 thE BRaNDlauREatE • busIness world revIew